Hardspace: Shipbreaker IP fully acquired by Blackbird Interactive

Developer Blackbird Interactive has fully acquired the IP rights to its 2022 space sim Hardspace: Shipbreaker from the game’s publisher Focus Entertainment. The developer has also confirmed that it has “multiple” new games in the Hardspace universe in development.

As confirmed in a post on Steam, “Blackbird Interactive fully owns and controls Hardspace: Shipbreaker” following the acquisition. With the IP now fully under Blackbird Interactive’s control, the Hardspace franchise set to “become a core part” of the developer’s business strategy. The post confirms that “multiple Hardspace projects are already in development“, although the studio is not yet ready to divulge any specifics.

Hardspace: Shipbreaker is a space sim in which you play as a salvager who must break apart spaceships in zero-g. Players must maximise their profit through precise cuts while protecting themselves from radiation and other hazards.

Fortunately, this split from Focus Entertainment appears to be amicable. Blackbird Interactive acknowledges that “Hardspace: Shipbreaker wouldn’t be what it is today” without Focus Entertainment, and the developer is “eternally grateful” for Focus Entertainment’s support. Hardspace: Shipbreaker will soon receive an update to reflect Blackbird Interactive’s full ownership of the IP.

In addition, Blackbird Interactive has opened up the LYNX Pioneer Program. This is a new initiative in which participants can access exclusive early playtests of future projects, receive behind-the-scenes development updates and participate in contests. Those seeking to take part can sign up on Blackbird Interactive’s website.