Pocketpair, the developer behind Palworld, is branching out into publishing, starting with Surgent Studios' next project.

Pocketpair Publishing, a newly established entity, announced on X/Twitter its support for a "brand new horror game" from Surgent Studios, the creators of Tales of Kenzera: Zau. This new horror title will be a standalone project, unrelated to the Tales of Kenzera universe.

Surgent Studios CEO Abubakar Salim stated that the partnership allows them to explore a unique horror concept inspired by industry trends. He emphasized the shared risk-taking approach between both companies, describing the game as "short and weird." While future Tales of Kenzera projects are under discussion, this upcoming title serves as a bridge to their next creative phase. No release date or title has been revealed. This project is distinct from Surgent Studios' previously announced Project Uso.

Pocketpair Publishing is actively seeking proposals from other developers, emphasizing a collaborative approach that respects creative autonomy. Their website highlights a commitment to supporting developers' visions without imposing creative constraints.

John Buckley, Head of Pocketpair Publishing, expressed enthusiasm for the venture, emphasizing their passion for games and desire to foster a supportive environment for creators. He highlighted the importance of easing the challenges of game development and enabling developers to pursue their ambitions. The partnership with Surgent Studios marks their initial endeavor.

Salim, also known for his acting roles (including Bayek in Assassin's Creed Origins), expressed his gratitude for the collaboration, viewing it as a positive example of industry support and collaboration.

Tales of Kenzera: Zau, a single-player Metroidvania game exploring themes of grief and love, received a 7/10 rating from IGN. Despite its positive reception, Surgent Studios faced financial challenges, including layoffs and redundancy notices. The support from Pocketpair Publishing is expected to be crucial for the studio's future.

Pocketpair continues to navigate a patent infringement lawsuit filed by The Pokémon Company and Nintendo, following Palworld's successful launch.