The team behind the viral game Hawthorn, which combines elements of Stardew Valley and Skyrim, is facing financial challenges in bringing their vision to life. Despite the overwhelming interest and support from fans, Near Studios co-founder and CEO, Heather Cerlan, revealed that the developers are funding the game from their personal pockets.
The journey of Near Studios began in 2022, but a series of unfortunate events, including a family tragedy and the departure of two original co-founders, disrupted the initial plans. Cerlan then joined forces with former Bethesda coworker Jason Richardson, who had long envisioned the concept of Hawthorn. However, the lack of external funding has presented a significant obstacle for the team.
Despite their efforts to secure funding throughout 2024, Cerlan expressed determination to bring Hawthorn to the market, even if it means exploring alternatives like a Kickstarter campaign. The team’s focus has shifted towards building a supportive community around the game, with the hope that everything else will fall into place.
The challenges faced by Near Studios highlight the harsh reality of independent game development, where passion and creativity often outstrip financial resources. As they navigate the uncertain terrain of funding, the team remains committed to realizing their vision for Hawthorn and creating an engaging experience for players.
In an industry dominated by big-budget titles and established studios, the story of Hawthorn serves as a reminder of the perseverance and resilience required to bring a creative project to fruition. By sharing their journey and struggles, Near Studios offers a glimpse into the dedication and hard work that go into making a dream a reality.
As fans eagerly anticipate the release of Hawthorn, the team continues to work tirelessly to overcome financial hurdles and bring their unique blend of gameplay to life. Through their passion and unwavering commitment, Near Studios is determined to carve out a space for themselves in the competitive world of indie game development.
