17-BIT

17-BIT is an American independent development studio founded in 2009 and based in Kent, Washington. The studio was founded by Jake Kazdal, a former developer at SEGA and Electronic Arts, who worked on the Sonic the Hedgehog series, amongst other projects. 17-BIT focuses on creating original games with a distinctive visual style and innovative gameplay mechanics.

The studio’s first major success was the turn-based strategy game Skulls of the Shogun, which ingeniously combines a samurai setting with humour and supernatural elements. Thanks to its fast-paced combat, accessible gameplay and distinctive cartoon-style graphics, the game has received positive reviews from both critics and players.

Another major project is the space action roguelike shooter Galak-Z: The Dimensional. Players pilot a futuristic space fighter and a combat mech, battling pirates and aliens whilst exploring procedurally generated levels. The game has impressed with its dynamic combat, physics-based mechanics and graphics inspired by classic Japanese anime.

The studio has also made a name for itself with the VR survival adventure Song in the Smoke, which transports players to a prehistoric world teeming with wild animals. The game combines hunting, crafting, fire-making, exploration and survival in an environment created specifically for virtual reality. Thanks to its sophisticated mechanics and immersive presentation, it ranks among the highest-rated VR survival games.

17-BIT is known for its creativity, emphasis on original game design and willingness to experiment with various genres and technologies. The studio regularly delivers fresh gaming experiences that have earned acclaim amongst fans of indie games.

Thanks to games such as Skulls of the Shogun, Galak-Z: The Dimensional and Song in the Smoke, 17-BIT is one of the most respected American independent game studios. Their titles are available on PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, PC and virtual reality platforms.