Black Salt Games, the acclaimed team behind the breakout 2023 hit Dredge, has announced the formation of a second game development studio: Disc 2 Games.
The new studio will operate with a distinct creative identity from its parent. While Black Salt Games earned its reputation with the moody, Lovecraftian tones of Dredge, Disc 2 Games promises a vibrant contrast, embracing a visual and tonal palette inspired by bright colors, 90s nostalgia, and retro game aesthetics.
The studio currently consists of Nadia Thorne (Producer), Johannes Otte (Art Director/Artist), Kris Nicholson (Lead Programmer), and Michael Bastiaens (3D Artist). The formation of Disc 2 Games marks a strategic expansion for Black Salt Games, positioning the company to diversify its creative output and reach a broader spectrum of players. “We wanted to create our own studio with its own identity”, said Nadia Thorne, CEO at Black Salt Games.
While still early in development, Disc 2 Games shared that their first project will lean towards stylized visuals rather than realism, drawing inspiration from classic titles like EarthBound, Shining Force, Sonic the Hedgehog, and Persona.
The studio name, Disc 2 Games, draws inspiration from the era of multi-disc video games, symbolizing the excitement of stepping into new, unexplored territory:
“It’s just that feeling when you’re playing one of those old games… and it says ‘Insert Disc 2.’ It just feels really exciting because you’re stepping into something new,” mentions Kris Nicholson, the Lead Programmer at Disc 2 Games.
This announcement positions Black Salt Games as a growing force in the indie development ecosystem. Launching a sub-studio with a distinct creative tone suggests a long-term roadmap and a maturing business model, rare among young indie teams.
It’s also an encouraging signal to fans and fellow developers that success in the indie scene can translate into sustainable, multi-project operations.
Dredge Development Officially Concludes
Black Salt Games also confirmed that development for Dredge has officially wrapped. Rather than a direct sequel, the team is now fully focused on crafting its next original title, an important move that showcases the studio’s commitment to innovation over iteration.
As the line between AA and prestige indie continues to blur, moves like these could become more common, setting the stage for a new wave of genre-defying, cross-studio storytelling from agile teams.
For more mobile games industry news and updates, check out these: