Blue Ocean Games, a venture fund, has commenced operations with a $30 million investment targeting independent game developers

Blue Ocean Games has introduced a $30 million fund to back independent game creators. This fund, initiated by Damian Lee—formerly of Krafton’s investment division—also has support from Krafton.

The firm will employ a funding method named SAIL, which stands for Structured Agreement for Indie Launch, to provide early-stage financial support to game concepts.

SAIL funding includes $100,000 per individual developer, and teams can receive up to $300,000 over a span of two years. This arrangement combines equity with revenue sharing, ensuring developers retain control over their intellectual property while also securing profits for investors.

Additional support, such as help with incorporation, accounting services, and guidance from experienced industry figures, will be available to those involved.

To foster collaboration, participating developers will be placed in groups designed to encourage sharing and teamwork.

Initially targeting solo developers and small teams, Blue Ocean Games aspires to extend this model to larger groups with future funds.

Lee remarked on the current challenges within the indie gaming sector, noting a disconnect between investor interests, developer aspirations, and player expectations. "We aim to rethink the ecosystem by aligning player interest with developer creativity through community and consistent funding support," he said. "Our intention is to broaden opportunities, allowing more creative projects to come to life."

Krafton’s development head, Maria Park, commented on the critical hurdles in early-stage funding for indie developers. "The model presented by Blue Ocean Games provides much-needed support to enable sustainable growth," she stated. "We are eager to collaborate and witness the innovative games borne from this endeavor."

The fund will also roll out a program named Rising Tide, designed to unearth new talent via online contests, scheduled to begin on May 1, 2025, in collaboration with Global Game Jam. This date will also see the opening of applications for direct financial support.

Describing Rising Tide, Lee talked about its role as a venue for developers from every level and background to test their ideas. "It's an opportunity to gain affirmation and the encouragement to invest more energy and resources into their projects," Lee explained. "While participation doesn’t require seeking funding, this program is invested in the future of gaming and nurturing new waves of creative talent."