Bad Brain Game Studios Closure: Impact on the Gaming Industry

Bad Brain Game Studios, a Montreal-based game developer established in 2023, has announced its closure on November 17, 2025. Led by studio head Sean Crooks, the studio will be shutting down due to the inability to secure a new publisher for their latest title, Midnight Riders.

This closure comes as a shock to many in the gaming industry, as Bad Brain Game Studios was founded by former developers, including those who worked on popular titles like Watch Dogs: Legion. The studio’s innovative approach to game development and its promising projects had garnered attention and praise from both players and critics.

However, despite their best efforts, Bad Brain Game Studios was unable to find a new partner to support their ongoing project, Midnight Riders. This has led to the unfortunate decision to cease operations and shut down the studio for good.

The closure of Bad Brain Game Studios will undoubtedly have an impact on the gaming industry, as it marks the end of a promising developer with a talented team. The fate of Midnight Riders, their last project, remains uncertain as the studio prepares to close its doors.

As the gaming community reflects on the legacy of Bad Brain Game Studios, questions arise about the future of indie developers and the challenges they face in an increasingly competitive industry. The closure serves as a reminder of the risks and uncertainties that come with game development, even for established studios.

Overall, the closure of Bad Brain Game Studios is a somber moment for the gaming industry, but it also highlights the resilience and creativity of developers who continue to push boundaries and innovate in the face of adversity.