"Released KIBORG independently, satisfied with the results. The future belongs to self-publishing," Dmitry Kachkov from Sobaka Studio on the outcomes of 2025

We continue to summarize the results of 2025 with gaming teams. Up next is an interview with the director of Sobaka Studio, Dmitry Kachkov.

How did 2025 turn out for your team? What were you able to achieve, what are you proud of, and what, on the contrary, did you not manage to complete?

Dmitry Kachkov, Sobaka Studio: For us, 2025 was a significant year. We launched our flagship KIBORG on all major platforms: Steam, Epic Games Store, VK Play, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One and Xbox Series, as well as Nintendo Switch.

We released it ourselves, and we are more than satisfied with the results. We also signed deals with more than five partners for key sales, covering the market extensively. The game received very positive reviews (across all platforms), we are making updates, offering discounts, and preparing DLC. The release of KIBORG is definitely a leap to a new level for us!

KIBORG

What conclusions did you draw as a development studio by the end of 2025?

Dmitry: Do what needs to be done, don't leave things undone!

Have the practices for interacting with publishers/investors changed? Has it become easier or harder to work with them?

Dmitry: I believe that the future lies in self-publishing. I don't rule out partnerships and collaborations, but in my opinion, a developer must take part in the release of a project rather than shifting this onto a "publisher." It's tough work, but life itself is a tough journey. This is the way!

How did the year turn out for the niche/genre in which you work?

Dmitry: Our genre is niche, and only Absolum came out as a notable beat 'em up roguelike. It's a fantastic game!

Absolum

What trend strengthening or emergence in your niche/genre do you expect in 2026?

Dmitry: Everyone is investing in AI right now. I'm expecting games where neural networks will be integrated into the core gameplay (like that one game where you need to travel by train), and I'm also looking forward to GTA!

What are the team's plans for next year?

Dmitry: DLC for KIBORG, several collaborative releases, and the development of our online project Chicken Chicken! Stay tuned for updates!

Chicken Chicken