Happy Anniversary to Simply Sweet Games!

When Carina Kom and I first decided to start a studio, we didn't begin with a game idea. We began with the knowledge of what was broken in the industry and asked ourselves how we could be part of a solution.

I first met Carina virtually during the Covid lockdown and saw right away that we shared a strong interest in giving back and supporting our communities. When we met in person as speakers at GDC23, the real alignment clicked. We understood the strength in our shared values and the lived experiences we carried from our time in the industry.

We talked about the kinds of experiences we wanted to create and the players we cared most about. We kept returning to the same core commitments. Building a healthy team. Practising sustainable development. Being transparent with our audience and earning their trust.

Eventually we needed a name. We brainstormed pages of possibilities, but when Simply Sweet Games appeared on the list, we both paused. It captured something important. A sense of delight and warmth, with just enough spice and edge to reflect who we are. It just felt like us.

Today marks two years since our incorporation, and it also happens to be my mom's birthday. I lost her many years ago, but I know she would be proud of the work we are doing and the space we are trying to create in this industry.

Here's to everything we have learned and everything still ahead.