Former executives from Versus Evil have unveiled a new independent publishing endeavor named Digital Bandidos

Digital Bandidos, a new comprehensive publisher, has officially emerged from stealth mode.

Established by former Versus Evil executives Steve Escalante and Lance James, the publisher has been quietly active for several months prior to this announcement.

Escalante, who previously served as general manager and founder of Versus Evil, will now take on the role of CEO. James, who was the head of production at Versus Evil, will fulfill the duties of executive producer.

Digital Bandidos aims to publish independent games, specifically targeting PC and console titles with budgets below $3 million. Their focus will be on genres such as role-playing games, strategy titles, and action games.

According to the announcement, the company is interested in obtaining both new and existing IPs to launch on additional platforms and enhance with extra content, high-definition versions, and more.

The publisher's funding strategy includes small acquisition-type buyouts of current games and a flexible investment model tailored to developers' various needs.

Digital Bandidos has already secured agreements for two titles: the second installment of the Town of Salem series by Blank Media, which is set for a mobile release soon, and the Early Access game Soulstone Survivors, which they plan to bring to additional platforms.

Escalante stated, "Throughout the first half of 2024, I've engaged with studios in North America and Europe to discuss their challenges in the modern market. The consensus is clear: they require reliable partners, financial support, and publishing expertise to realize their projects. This coincides with my decade-long mission to advocate for independent game developers. We now have superior tools, more experience, a solid track record, and an outstanding team. We are thrilled about our direction and very excited about Digital Bandidos' future."

Versus Evil ceased operations in December 2023, shortly after resolving a legal issue with its parent company TinyBuild. Steve Escalante had departed from the company earlier that month.

In November 2021, TinyBuild had bought Versus Evil and its sister firm Red Cerberus in a $31.3 million deal.