Astragon shuts down Astragon Development, the successor to Independent Arts

Astragon Entertainment, known for its simulation games, is shuttering Astragon Development, formerly the Independent Arts Software studio based in Germany.

GamesMarket reports that this decision affects upwards of 40 team members, with the company exploring "socially responsible solutions" for those impacted as part of a strategic overhaul.

Independent Arts Software, established in Hamm in 1990 by Holger Kuchling, has contributed to over 250 gaming projects. The studio mainly focused on porting and collaborative development for companies such as Kalypso Media, Daedalic Entertainment, and Wild River Games.

Astragon was acquired by Team17, now called Everplay Group, in 2022. In April 2023, Astragon purchased Independent Arts Software for approximately $3.9 million (€3.5m) to internalize development of its simulation games and broaden its reach on various gaming platforms. After Kuchling's departure in February 2025, the studio transitioned to Astragon Development.

The decision to close Astragon Development follows significant reductions at the company, including ceasing physical game distribution in January to concentrate on publishing aspects.

This move also comes after the full version of Seafarer: The Ship Sim was released at the end of September. Despite securing over $2 million (€1.8m) in German federal support, its official launch did not attract as many players as its early access phase, earning "Mixed" user reviews. Astragon has indicated that updates for the game will continue for the foreseeable future.