Astragon closes German studio Astragon Development, over 40 jobs affected
The publisher says the closure of the former Independent Arts Software is part of a strategic realignment and is seeking socially responsible solutions for staff.
Astragon Entertainment is closing Astragon Development, the German studio formerly known as Independent Arts Software, with more than 40 employees affected, according to gamesindustry.biz. The publisher described the move as part of a strategic realignment and said it is seeking socially responsible solutions for the staff concerned.
Independent Arts Software was acquired by Astragon in April 2023 for up to $3.9 million (€3.5m). The studio was renamed Astragon Development three months after founder Holger Kuchling left the company in February 2025.
Kuchling founded Independent Arts in Hamm in 1990, and the studio worked on more than 250 games over three decades, building a reputation for ports and co-development work for publishers including Kalypso Media, Daedalic Entertainment and Wild River Games.
Astragon itself was acquired in 2022 by Team17, now known as Everplay Group. In January, the publisher pulled out of physical distribution entirely to focus on publishing.
Its recent release Seafarer: The Ship Sim, which received more than $2 million (€1.8m) in German federal funding, fully launched at the end of September. The 1.0 launch drew far fewer players than its early access debut and holds Mixed user reviews. Astragon has said it will continue updating the game for now.
Quick answers
Which studio is Astragon Entertainment closing?
Astragon Development, the German studio previously known as Independent Arts Software.
How many employees are affected by the closure?
More than 40 employees are affected, and Astragon says it is seeking socially responsible solutions for them.
Will Seafarer: The Ship Sim still be updated?
Astragon has said it will continue updating Seafarer: The Ship Sim for now.