Creators of Still Wakes the Deep Become Independent
Sophie Laurent 
Key Takeaways
Created with AI - we're still experimenting, so apologies if it misses the mark
- The Chinese Room, known for titles like Everyones Gone to the Rapture and Still Wakes the Deep, has regained its independence through a management buyout.
- This move grants them control over creative decisions, allowing focus on developing original projects without external influence.
- Their recent work includes Still Wakes the Deep, which received multiple awards, and Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2, in collaboration with Paradox Interactive.
- The studio is also working on two additional original projects, set to be announced in the future.
The Chinese Room Regains Independence Post Buyout from Sumo Digital
The UK-based studio The Chinese Room has regained its independence through a management buyout, separating from Sumo Digital. This strategic move grants the studio control over its creative decisions and allows it to concentrate on developing fresh, original projects. Founded in Brighton, The Chinese Room is known for acclaimed titles such as Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture and Still Wakes the Deep. The studio’s collaboration with Sumo Digital began in 2018. However, the dynamic shifted in 2022 when Sumo Digital was acquired by Chinese technology titan Tencent. In 2024, Sumo Digital announced a strategic pivot towards providing production services for partners. This shift led to an internal restructuring in June that affected approximately 15 members of its workforce and involved the sale of several studios, including The Chinese Room. With the management buyout complete, The Chinese Room will once again operate independently from its UK base. According to Director Ed Daly, this independence allows the studio to prioritize the development of original intellectual properties while engaging in collaborations when strategically beneficial.
The Chinese Room forges ahead with independent development and new projects
The Chinese Room’s recent work includes Still Wakes the Deep, released in 2024, which received a BAFTA for New Intellectual Property and two awards in interpretation categories. Its next major title, Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2, is being developed alongside publisher Paradox Interactive. Originally slated for the first half of 2025, the game was delayed in March and is now scheduled for an October launch. The Chinese Room has also confirmed it is developing two more original projects.
In Case You Missed It
For those interested in the latest developments in British game development, be sure to check out “Studio Behind Still Waters the Deep, Dear Esther Regains Independence” by Marcus Thompson (July 21, 2025), where he delves into The Chinese Room’s journey back to independence and their ambitious plans for future projects. With new funding from Hiro Capital, this studio is poised to continue its legacy of innovation and creativity in the gaming industry. Head over to Studio Behind Still Waters the Deep, Dear Esther Regains Independence to learn more about their exciting new ventures!
About the Author
Marcus Thompson 
Bruno Pferd 
Ahmed Hassan 
Jonathan Dubinski 
