Panic has certainly come a long way since its humble beginnings as an app developer in the late 1990s. In 2016, the company made a bold pivot into video game publishing, starting with the critically acclaimed game, Firewatch. This shift was followed by the release of Untitled Goose Game in 2019, which became a breakout indie hit.
But perhaps the most interesting turn of events came in 2022, when Panic unveiled the Playdate, a tiny yellow game console with a crank on the side and a monochromatic display. Despite its unconventional design, the Playdate was a resounding success and continues to receive updates and new games even today.
Now, in mid-2023, Panic has just revealed a fresh slate of projects in its first-ever games showcase. The event included the unveiling of five new games and teaser trailers for upcoming titles from esteemed developers.
One of the highlights from the showcase was Nour: Play with your Food. Developed by Missouri studio Terrifying Jellyfish and helmed by designer and digital artist TJ Hughes, Nour offers a unique and vibrant experience where players can interact with digital versions of food in a bright and colorful landscape. The game allows players to create mesmerizing scenes or chaotic explosions using various food items. Nour is set to release on PC, PlayStation 4, and PS5 on September 12th, with specific DualSense-specific interactions on the PS5, such as slurping soup through the controller’s microphone.
Another game that caught the attention of viewers was Thank Goodness You’re Here! Developed by Yorkshire studio Coal Supper, this slapstick platformer takes inspiration from shows like Don’t Hug Me I’m Scared and features a hand-crafted art style reminiscent of Gumball or Adventure Time. Players take on the role of a traveling salesman navigating through a quirky Northern English town and engaging in odd jobs. Thank Goodness You’re Here! is expected to launch in 2024 for PC, Switch, and PS5.
Arco, developed by a multinational team of pixel artist Franek Nowotniak, game developer Max Cahill, composer José Ramón “Bibiki” García, and industry veteran Antonio “Fayer” Uribe, presents an intriguing blend of pixelated adventure and archery gameplay. With its unique combat system and tactical turn-based RPG mechanics, Arco promises to deliver an immersive experience. Although specific console releases have yet to be announced, Arco is scheduled to arrive on PC and consoles in 2024.
Despelote, a game developed by Ecuadorian creators Julián Cordero and Sebastián Valbuena, offers a powerful narrative experience drawing from their childhood memories of playing football in the city of Quito. This game explores Ecuador’s story of economic ruin and resurgence in the early 2000s, capturing the essence of its people and their struggles. Despelote features real-life locations in Quito, represented through static-covered backgrounds and interactable objects highlighted in black and white. The game is slated for release on PC, Xbox Series X/S, and PS5 in 2024.
Finally, Panic showcased Time Flies, a unique black-and-white game developed by Michael Frei and Raphaël Munoz. Time Flies allows players to experience the short life of a fly within mere seconds. As the fly, players can choose to complete small challenges or simply enjoy the scenery, shaping the fly’s existence. Originally planned for release in 2023, Time Flies has been delayed and will now launch in 2024 on PC, Switch, and PlayStation 5.
In addition to these exciting projects, Panic also teased upcoming titles from Okomotive, the team behind FAR: Changing Tides, and House House, the developers of Untitled Goose Game. Both of these studios have partnered with Panic for their new projects, promising fresh and exciting experiences for players.
Panic’s first-ever games showcase undoubtedly left fans excited for the future. With a wide range of unique and innovative games on the horizon, Panic continues to solidify its position as a prominent publisher in the gaming industry.
