From solo development to a publishing deal with Ubisoft: Developer of "Morbid Metal" shares their journey [TGS2025]
Note: the original Japanese article can be found at:
https://www.4gamer.net/games/637/G063710/20250928019/
Editorial Department: Sakatou Photographer: Aikawa Takeji | 2025/09/28 05:20 (UTC)
The new action game “Morbid Metal” originally began as a solo project and has since expanded its development under the indie studio Screen Juice, with publishing handled by Ubisoft.
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Experience intense, stylish, high-speed combat in the sci-fi action roguelike “Morbid Metal” at TGS2025
At the Tokyo Game Show 2025 venue, Ubisoft is publishing new game “Morbid Metal”, developed by indie studio Screen Juice. We bring you a hands-on report of experiencing its high-speed action.
[September 27, 2025, 18:42]
- Keywords:
- PC: Morbid Metal
- PC
- Action
- Felix Schade
- Ubisoft Entertainment
- Play report
- Editorial: Orutaka
- Tokyo Game Show
- TGS 2025
- Event
At TGS2025, the Japanese-localized version of “Morbid Metal” was showcased for the first time. Developer Felix Schade made his debut visit to Japan, and we learned about the game’s development journey.
Felix Schade, Producer of “Morbid Metal” Thumbnail image for Gallery No. 007 / From solo development to a publishing deal with Ubisoft: The developer of “Morbid Metal” shares their journey [TGS2025]
4Gamer:
You’re visiting Tokyo Game Show for the first time—how did you find the exhibition booth?
Felix Schade (hereafter, Schade):
I was extremely excited. Seeing real players enjoying the game up close was truly a wonderful experience. It was powerful to feel firsthand that our game is being accepted by people right in front of us—it made me very happy.
4Gamer:
“Morbid Metal” started as a personal project—what inspired you to begin?
Schade:
I began development during university, around 2017. At the time, I had options like going on an internship, studying abroad, or working on my own project—and that’s how “Morbid Metal” originally came about. Initially, both gameplay and title were different, evolving gradually over many years into its current form.
4Gamer:
Why did you choose game development?
Schade:
I wanted to create a portfolio piece that would help me build my career. Since I had no experience making commercial games, I decided to make something I personally wanted to play.
At first, the game was more relaxed in pace, but as development progressed, it evolved toward greater action and speed, transforming from a tactical title into an ultra-stylish action-packed experience.
4Gamer:
How does the current concept differ from the initial one?
Schade:
The original version did feature character switching, but it leaned heavily on MOBA-style magic-based tactics—strongly influenced by games like “Dota 2.” Over time, we gradually shifted toward stylish combat skills and incorporated roguelike elements as a major change. We aimed to create an experience that’s enjoyable even in short play sessions.
4Gamer:
Did the world setting and visuals also change significantly from early stages?
Schade:
Yes, they changed dramatically. Initially, the visual style was colorful and fantasy-oriented, with a paper-folding motif. But as gameplay shifted toward more stylish direction, we began seeking bolder, edgier designs—eventually arriving at today’s world concept where machinery and nature merge.
4Gamer:
How has the shift from solo development to founding Studio Screen Juice changed things for you?
Schade:
It’s been a big change. When working alone, I made every decision myself—but in team-based development, I had to divide responsibilities and learn to trust my teammates. At first, it was challenging, but now I’m grateful to be surrounded by passionate, skilled colleagues with whom we can develop the game together. Without them, I wouldn’t have been able to come here to TGS2025.
4Gamer:
How has your relationship with publisher Ubisoft evolved?
Schade:
I continued working on the solo project and posted videos on Twitter (now X), which eventually caught Ubisoft’s attention. From there, discussions began and ultimately led to a publishing agreement.
4Gamer:
The demo version shown at TGS2025 features enhanced narrative elements—how do you plan to develop this aspect?
Schade:
“Morbid Metal” is set in a distant future simulation world. Players take on the role of the last AI created by mysterious operators, and must prove their own worth through repeated battles. As players progress, they’re guided by key characters, gradually uncovering the story.
4Gamer:
Can you share what you can about character number three, “Vector,” and the fourth character?
Schade:
First, Vector is agile and plays like a ninja—utilizing shurikens and powerful long-range attacks. He works exceptionally well with Flux and Eckou. As for the fourth character, I can’t reveal too much, but they bring strong, weighty action to the game.
4Gamer:
What’s next for the project?
Schade:
I can’t discuss release date or pricing just yet—but we plan to share more information soon. This was our first time showing a Japanese demo at TGS2025, and we aim to support multiple languages including Japanese upon official launch.
4Gamer:
Finally, any message for Japanese gamers?
Schade:
The game draws inspiration from Japanese culture, so it means a lot that many visitors were able to try it here. I’m really looking forward to seeing your reactions after the early access begins. Being at TGS2025 was an enormous source of pride and a truly remarkable experience.
4Gamer:
Thank you very much for your time today.