No More Robots Launches First Self-Developed Game After Nine Years
Indie publisher No More Robots releases Cruise Control, its first self-developed IP, marking a shift from its usual publishing model while maintaining its unconventional success.
No More Robots' First Self-Developed Game
No More Robots, the indie publisher known for titles like Descenders and Hypnospace Outlaw, has released its first self-developed game, Cruise Control. This marks a significant shift for the company, which has spent the past nine years primarily publishing third-party titles. Founder Mike Rose described the move as a high-stakes experiment, with potential rewards far exceeding those of their usual publishing deals.
From Shooter to Cruise Simulator
The development of Cruise Control began as a team-based online shooter, a project that took three years and attracted interest from a major, unnamed company. However, the deal fell through, leaving No More Robots with a shelved project and a small team in need of a new direction. Rose pivoted to Cruise Control, initially conceived as a cruise ship management game akin to Two Point Hospital, before evolving into a puzzle title inspired by Mini Motorways.
Financial and Strategic Implications
Rose emphasized that Cruise Control represents a higher-risk, higher-reward venture for No More Robots. Unlike their usual publishing model, where the company takes a small cut of sales, Cruise Control's profits belong entirely to them. "Every sale of Cruise Control is worth three or four times as much to us," Rose said. If successful, the game could fund the revival of their shelved shooter project, albeit retooled as a PvE experience to mitigate risk.
No More Robots' Unconventional Success
Despite industry turbulence, No More Robots has avoided layoffs and financial instability by resisting rapid expansion during the COVID-19 boom. Rose admitted this was accidental, citing his decision to distribute profits rather than reinvest aggressively. The company typically operates on five-figure budgets, with only one exception-Another Door, an upcoming multiplayer roguelike with a $180,000 budget.
Industry Context and Future Plans
Rose described the recent games industry as a "massacre," with many companies downsizing after over-expansion. No More Robots' cautious approach has allowed it to remain stable. Looking ahead, the company may revisit its shelved shooter project if Cruise Control performs well, though Rose acknowledged the challenges of entering the competitive PvP shooter market as a small studio.
What's Next for Players and Developers
Cruise Control is now available, offering players a chance to engage with No More Robots' first original IP. For indie developers, the company's story serves as a case study in balancing ambition with financial prudence. Rose's advice? "Who needs loads of money? Everyone's getting paid. We're putting out games and having fun."
