KRAFTON has bought Eleventh Hour Games, the indie studio behind Last Epoch. The deal comes while KRAFTON faces heat over an ongoing legal battle with Unknown Worlds, but this move is all about expansion.
Last Epoch launched in Early Access back in 2019. It hit version 1.0 on 21 February 2024 and has since sold over 3 million copies. Not bad for a project that started on Reddit and got off the ground through Kickstarter.
KRAFTON gains a major ARPG title
With this deal, they gain a major ARPG title. In return, Eleventh Hour Games gets funding, publishing support, and help with console development. The studio keeps full creative control.
In KRAFTON’s words:
“We’re backing EHG’s live service roadmap, helping them grow, and pushing Last Epoch to more players worldwide.”
Maria Park, head of corporate development, added:
“EHG’s rise is impressive. We support studios that put players first.”
That last line seems like a jab at Unknown Worlds. The fallout there has been rough. KRAFTON is accused of delaying Subnautica 2 to avoid a $250 million payout.
Still, EHG CEO Judd Cobler is hopeful:
“This is a dream come true. KRAFTON shares our passion for ARPGs. With their support, we’ll take Last Epoch even further.”
EHG will stay in charge but with more tools, more reach, and more room to grow. It’s a big moment for the team and for Last Epoch. Let’s hope this one works out.
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