In the ever-evolving gaming landscape, each year brings a mix of eagerly awaited AAA titles, promising indie games, and surprise hits. For 2025, all signs indicate that REPO, an indie game, will capture the spotlight, achieving success on Steam charts and maintaining top positions. Yet, for its creators at Semiwork, this achievement was far from anticipated. Their previous endeavor, Voidigo, took six years to develop but failed to meet expectations, making REPO a risky yet bold venture.
The journey of REPO began as a single-player cleanup game with a multiplayer feature added later. What started as a simple concept transformed dramatically when flaccid-headed characters were introduced, sparking humor and engagement. Realizing the limitations of the cleaning mechanic, the developers pivoted towards movement-based gameplay, eventually evolving it into a tax collection game requiring teamwork in haunted houses.
Rising from the Ashes: Semiwork's Gamble with REPO
After the underwhelming reception of Voidigo, Semiwork faced a daunting decision. With no guarantee of future projects, they decided to invest everything into REPO. According to Pontus Sundström, their marketing manager, this new project was fraught with uncertainty. Walter Tischkewitz, co-CEO, artist, and programmer, echoed this sentiment, stating the team adopted a mindset of failing quickly to move forward. They pooled all resources from Voidigo into REPO, embracing a high-risk, high-reward strategy.
This bold approach proved successful. Initially conceived as a single-player cleanup game, REPO underwent significant transformations. The introduction of quirky characters injected humor and appeal, marking a turning point in its development. The developers experimented with these elements, recognizing their potential to engage players. However, challenges remained, prompting further innovation in gameplay mechanics.
From Cleanup to Haunted House Heists: REPO's Evolutionary Journey
As the cleanup mechanic struggled to captivate players, the team sought alternative approaches. Recognizing the need for player interaction, they transitioned to a movement-focused game. This shift laid the groundwork for a more dynamic experience, culminating in the tax collection concept. Players now ventured into haunted houses, working collaboratively to extract valuables, adding layers of strategy and excitement.
The evolution of REPO exemplifies the iterative process of game development. By continuously testing and refining ideas, the Semiwork team crafted a unique experience that resonated with audiences. The transformation from a straightforward cleanup game to a multiplayer adventure involving haunted houses highlights their adaptability and creativity. Through persistence and innovative thinking, they overcame initial setbacks, ultimately crafting a title that would redefine their studio’s trajectory. This journey underscores the importance of embracing change and taking calculated risks in the competitive world of indie gaming.