In a move that’s set to continue strengthening Malta-based Reforged Studios’ international publishing reach, the group has now announced its full acquisition of Headup, the acclaimed German independent games publisher behind globally recognised titles like Bridge Constructor, Pumpkin Jack and Super Meat Boy 3D.
The acquisition marks a major strategic step for Reforged Studios as it continues to build a premium, developer-first publishing platform designed to serve independent studios worldwide. The addition of Headup brings proven curatorial expertise into Reforged’s growing international structure.
Headup will continue operating in the independent publishing space with the same focus on distinctive games and developer partnerships, now backed by Reforged’s broader network and resources. In addition to continuing to oversee Headup’s operations, founder Dieter Schoeller will also contribute to Reforged Studios’ wider strategic growth as Chief Publishing Officer at group level, reporting directly to the founders.
GamingMalta CEO Ivan Filletti congratulated the Malta-based studios, stating: “This announcement reflects both the momentum being built by Malta-based games companies and the island’s growing role within the international interactive entertainment economy. This is a major step for the studio and an encouraging development for Malta’s wider games ecosystem, particularly at a time when strong publishing structures can offer greater resilience and long-term opportunity to independent developers.
With Reforged Studios operating from its Malta headquarters, this kind of international expansion also shows key strategic decision making being executed and scaled from Malta. It reinforces the wider direction set out in Malta Vision 2050, which places digital growth, innovation and long-term economic development at the centre of the country’s future.”
Peter van der Watt, CEO of Reforged Studios, described the deal as an important step in strengthening the company’s publishing platform and long-term direction.
“Headup has built one of the most respected and carefully curated portfolios in independent publishing. Their reputation has been earned through consistent developer advocacy and a clear editorial vision. Bringing that capability into Reforged materially strengthens our publishing platform and accelerates our long-term growth strategy. This acquisition is not about consolidation for its own sake. It is about building a durable publishing home for ambitious independent creators,” he said.
Dieter Schoeller, Founder of Headup, said the decision was rooted in alignment rather than scale.
“This wasn’t about chasing scale. It was about finding the right people. Reforged is built by people who genuinely understand games, and that alignment allows us to grow without losing what makes Headup special,” he said.
The acquisition forms part of Reforged Studios’ wider ambition to combine independent creative culture with institutional-grade infrastructure, giving studios the opportunity to grow without compromising their identity. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The Headup team remains unchanged, with no job losses or redundancies as part of the acquisition.
