Pixel Doors, a new independent publishing label founded by Jacek Pudlik and Nic van 't Schip, has announced its official launch. With a model built for studio survival, the new indie label challenges the 'recoup-first' culture.
The new Amsterdam-based publisher, Pixel Doors, operates on a 'developer-first' model, ensuring that the studio secures its financial footing and stability before the publisher begins to share in its success.
"We are seeing an industry that increasingly values the predictability of a spreadsheet over the opportunity of creativity," said Nic van 't Schip, Co-Founder. "The final straw for us was seeing too many brilliant games get rejected or homogenized because they didn't fit a template. We built Pixel Doors to be the antidote to that 'pencil pusher' culture. We are opening doorways for the breakthroughs, not just the blockbusters."
Jacek Pudlik, Co-Founder, added: "Our model is simple: we place the financial health of the studio above our own short-term ROI. Most publishers act like banks that need to be repaid immediately. We act like partners who only succeed when the developer is already winning. If the developer doesn't survive, the industry doesn't survive."
Mad King Redemption is the first published title from Pixel Doors, developed by Secret Mission. Described as a Dark Fantasy Roguelite Beat 'em Up, Mad King Redemption fuses 90s arcade combat with modern narrative depth and progression. It is set to launch on Early Access in Q1 2026.
"The vast experience Pixel Doors brings to our daily rhythm is a game-changer," said Nicolò Girotti, Co-Founder of Secret Mission. "They give us the peace of mind that the business side is being handled by people who truly know their craft. That trust allows us to stop worrying about the noise and focus entirely on making the best possible game."
