An incubation programme for PC package indie game developers is on the horizon.

Smilegate announced on the 16th that it is launching 'Game Lab with STOVE INDIE,' a collaborative programme with the Seoul Business Agency (SBA) via its gaming platform, STOVE. This initiative aims to foster a stable development environment for PC indie studios based in Seoul while bolstering their prospects for global expansion. Applications are open until November 7.

STOVE INDIE and the SBA are teaming up to identify promising PC package game titles, aiming to create a virtuous cycle by incubating these projects into global successes. They have secured creative workspace at the Seoul Game Content Center in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, where they plan to host around 10 individual developers or teams.

Selected firms will receive full coverage of rental deposits and maintenance fees. Furthermore, they gain access to various perks provided by the SBA, including Adobe CC licenses, loaner test hardware, networking events, and marketing support. STOVE intends to operate Game Lab with STOVE INDIE in conjunction with its 'STOVE INDIE Alliance,' a bespoke ECO (Ecosystem Creator Opportunity) programme designed to bridge the gap between creators and the platform's user base.

Creators looking to move in can automatically join the STOVE INDIE Alliance by participating in 'Wise Demo Life,' STOVE's user testing programme, before the initial written evaluation. Smilegate's goal is to help creators build a fanbase, refine their game's competitiveness, and establish a sustainable brand. The platform also offers tangible growth opportunities, including professional mentoring, launch incentives, global publishing, and marketing guarantees, positioning itself as a key partner in elevating the indie game industry.

Yeo Seung-hwan, Director of STOVE INDIE at Smilegate, remarked, "We are continuously expanding the STOVE INDIE ecosystem to ensure that indie creators can turn their dreams of global success into reality," adding, "Through this collaboration with the Seoul Business Agency, we aim to discover promising talent and provide them with the support needed to showcase their potential on a larger stage."

For more detailed information regarding the programme and how to apply, please visit the official website of the Seoul Business Agency.