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New Blood CEO would rather shut down the boomer shooter studio than sell out: ‘In 20 years, we’re done. I’m gonna say goodbye, shut it down’
New Blood Interactive chief executive Dave Oshry says he would rather close the studio than sell it or seek outside investment if it could no longer operate on its own terms. His stance reflects a preference for preserving the team’s independence and ending on a high note, as game studios are increasingly acquired or shut down.
The studio, which is marking its 12th anniversary, has made games including Dusk, Gloomwood, Amid Evil, Fallen Aces and Ultrakill. Oshry says its small, remote team and focus on varied projects have helped it avoid relying on endless sequels; he imagines New Blood eventually retiring in around 20 years, before its work or team begins to decline.
In short
- Dave Oshry says New Blood will not be sold.
- He would close the studio if it could not stay independent.
- New Blood is celebrating 12 years and plans to end on its own terms.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Keeping New Blood independent could protect its creative direction, working culture and willingness to make varied games without pressure from investors or a buyer. Choosing to close when the team is ready may also let its founders and staff finish on their own terms, rather than continue after the studio’s work or conditions have changed.
The case against
Selling the studio or seeking investment could provide resources, stability and opportunities for its staff, while allowing its games and creative legacy to continue beyond the founders’ preferred timeline. A planned closure might end a valued workplace and limit future projects even if the studio could adapt under new ownership or with outside support.
Explained simply
New Blood Interactive is an independent video game studio founded by Dave Oshry and a small, remote team. It makes first-person action games, including Dusk, Gloomwood and Ultrakill, and has built its work around a range of projects rather than a long run of sequels.
Game studios can seek outside investment or be bought by larger companies, which may affect who makes decisions and what games get developed. Oshry’s comments reflect a preference for keeping New Blood independent, even if that means closing it in the future; he has imagined the studio ending after about 20 more years.