Skullgirls Developer Hidden Variable Ceases Operations Amid Publisher Dispute

Hidden Variable Withdraws from Skullgirls Development Amid Legal Dispute

In a recent assertion on Bluesky, Hidden Variable announced its cessation of involvement in the development of the Skullgirls franchise. This decision stems from an ongoing legal dispute with Autumn Games, the franchise’s publisher. According to reports, the matter has escalated to litigation, currently pending in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Consequently, Hidden Variable has indicated they cannot provide further commentary until the legal issues are resolved.

Allegations of Financial Disputes

The specific nature of the conflict between Hidden Variable and Autumn Games remains unclear; however, early indications suggest it may revolve around unpaid dues. A legal document sourced from Trellis implies that Autumn Games is alleged to have defaulted on payments to Hidden Variable on several occasions since November, totaling approximately $1.23 million.

Future of Skullgirls Updates

Although Hidden Variable will no longer participate in the franchise’s development, Autumn Games reportedly plans to maintain updates for Skullgirls amid ongoing legal tensions. However, they have not specified which versions of the game will be updated or provided a timeline for when players can expect those updates to be rolled out.

Official Statement from Hidden Variable

The comprehensive statement from Hidden Variable reads as follows:

As of January 21st, 2025, Hidden Variable is no longer involved in the development of Skullgirls Mobile, 2nd Encore, or other Skullgirls IP-related efforts due to a dispute with Autumn Games which is now the subject of litigation filed in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. In light of that, we hope you understand that – beyond this statement – we will not be commenting further until this dispute is resolved.

All of us at HVS are incredibly proud of the 10+ years we’ve invested in Skullgirls in all its forms, including creating and supporting Skullgirls Mobile, bringing new characters and platforms to Skullgirls 2nd Encore, supporting the competitive community via the Skullgirls Championship Series, and helping fans new and old fall in love with the IP through the Skullgirls Webtoon and countless other partnerships.

Most of all, we’re grateful to have been able to celebrate and support the incomparable Skullgirls community – many of whom we’ve been fortunate to meet in person over the years at various events.

Thank you all for everything – you deserve nothing but the best.

A Troubled History for Skullgirls

Skullgirls has experienced significant challenges since its inception. Notably, the original developer was removed from the project following serious allegations against studio head Mike Zaimont. This history of turmoil has contributed to the franchise’s tumultuous journey.

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