#USA #Santa Monica #Smilegate #Absurd Ventures #A BETTER PARADISE

Smilegate Partners with Absurd Ventures for a New AAA Game

On August 6, 2025, Smilegate, a prominent video game development and publishing company, made headlines by announcing a global publishing agreement with Absurd Ventures, the studio founded by Dan Houser, former creative director at Rockstar Games. This collaboration marks a significant venture into the action, adventure, and science fiction gaming realm within the expansive universe of A BETTER PARADISE.

A World of Innovation

A BETTER PARADISE is not just a game; it represents a world rich with narrative and character development. Created by Absurd Ventures, A BETTER PARADISE has already made its mark with a successful audio fiction series titled A BETTER PARADISE Volume One: An Aftermath, which recently topped Apple's fiction charts and received the prestigious Signal Award for Best Scripted Fiction Episode in 2024. Following the success of this audio series, the studio plans to release a novel adaptation in October 2025, further expanding its reach into storytelling.

The Team Behind the Magic

Currently under development, the AAA video game draws on the creative talents of Dan Houser and his dedicated team at Absurd Ventures. The development is spearheaded by Greg Borrud, a veteran from Niantic and co-founder of Pandemic Studios. Their roster includes significant industry talents from renowned companies such as Bungie, Treyarch, and Respawn, ensuring a wealth of experience and creativity behind the project. The involvement of these industry veterans hints at a commitment to high-quality gameplay that fans can expect.

A Strategic Investment

Smilegate’s involvement goes beyond mere publishing, indicating a deeper strategic investment within Absurd Ventures. After previously investing in the company, Smilegate will support the game's development financially to ensure a successful global launch. According to Sung Joon-ho, CEO of Smilegate, the partnership will not only allow them to leverage their existing experience but also set the stage for a game that combines innovative storytelling with advanced gameplay.

Visionary Statements

Dan Houser expressed excitement over collaborating with Smilegate, emphasizing the studio's dedication to unique storytelling and compelling experiences. He believes the partnership can bring forth an original game that transports players into an entirely new adventure-filled environment.

Kwon Hyuk-bin, the Chief Visionary Officer at Smilegate, also conveyed the significance of their collaboration, expressing eagerness in showcasing a title that embodies the creative visions they have long discussed. This project aims to transcend continental barriers, aiming to establish Smilegate as a formidable player on the global game development stage.

The Future of Absurd Ventures

Furthermore, Absurd Ventures is not solely focused on video games. The company aims to explore a variety of entertainment mediums including original films, animations, audio fictions, and comics. Founded by Dan Houser, previously known for his significant contributions at Rockstar Games, Absurd Ventures epitomizes innovation and storytelling. Their original intellectual properties, including A BETTER PARADISE, highlight their commitment to creating engaging narratives in various formats.

As the gaming community anticipates further updates regarding the development timeline, platforms, and gameplay details, the excitement surrounding this collaboration continues to build. Players are eager for an immersive experience that promises to unwind the story of A BETTER PARADISE in ways yet to be imagined. Keep an eye on their official channels for more information about this upcoming title.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the partnership between Smilegate and Absurd Ventures signifies a promising future for AAA gaming. With the legacy of Dan Houser and a talented team behind the scenes, A BETTER PARADISE is set to become a landmark title in the industry. The fusion of strategic investment, creative vision, and storytelling expertise has laid the groundwork for what could be a defining moment in modern gaming. Stay tuned to witness the evolution of this groundbreaking project.