Returnal Director Forms New Studio, Cosmic Division

Harry Krueger, director of the 2021 cult hit Returnal, has formed his own Finland-based studio named Cosmic Division, after having left Housemarque in 2023.

He’d previously worked on Outland and Resogun, before taking on a director role for Nex Machina and Returnal. After he “helped shape” Saros in the early stages of development, Krueger has started his own studio, and they’ve already got some big plans.

Cosmic Division Working On New Single-Player IP

The newly formed studio has already revealed that its debut project will be a brand-new single-player IP for both PC and consoles. Cosmic Division describes the game as an “unapologetically gameplay-first experience,” though it also aims to deliver emotionally impactful storytelling.

Krueger, who now serves as founder and CEO of Cosmic Division, reflected on his departure from Housemarque and his ambitions for the future in an official statement. He explained that he was “incredibly grateful” for his time at the studio, while also expressing excitement about building something entirely new with a fresh team and creative direction.

The veteran developer also stated that Cosmic Division wants to push forward with the lessons learned from crafting fast-paced action titles like Returnal, while simultaneously exploring “fresh themes, ideas and talent.” It’s an approach that will likely intrigue fans of Housemarque’s previous work, especially given Krueger’s history directing intense, arcade-inspired gameplay experiences.

Cosmic Division has already secured initial seed funding to begin development on its first title, although the studio is currently looking for additional partners, investors, and developers as production ramps up. Krueger closed the announcement with a teaser for the studio’s future ambitions, saying: “Now our journey of cosmic wonder begins, as we venture towards the stars… and beyond.”

Are you interested in seeing what Cosmic Division has in store? Share your thoughts in the official Insider Gaming Discord Server, and don’t forget to tune into the Insider Gaming Showcase on May 28!

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