About Us
Paintbucket Games is an indie studio based in Berlin, founded in 2018 by Jörg Friedrich and Sebastian St. Schulz. Both have been developing digital games for over 20 years, have a background in AAA game development, and have worked on titles such as Spec Ops: The Line. Paintbucket Games has since grown to a team of around 20 people.
Our debut title, Through the Darkest of Times, in which players coordinate a civilian resistance group in Nazi-era Berlin, won numerous awards in 2020. In The Darkest Files, our second major game, players take on the role of a public prosecutor investigating real-life Nazi crimes in the post-war period. It has also received multiple awards. We create games with impact and conviction.
Games that tackle political, historical and socially sensitive issues whilst taking a clear stand: against racism, anti-Semitism and hatred, and in favour of an open and democratic society.
At the same time, it is important to us that our games are always engaging and fun.
Play is a voluntary act.
This must apply just as much to impact and serious games as it does to the latest blockbuster.
From concept to finished game
We develop impact and entertainment games in close collaboration with our partners. You provide the subject-matter expertise; we bring the know-how in game design, development and if required pedagogy. It doesn’t matter whether you come to us with a fully formed idea or just a topic: together we’ll find the best solution.
Concept workshop
Together, we define the objectives, target audience and framework. The result is an initial game concept.
Prototyping
We build a playable version at an early stage: this allows you to test the concept before full production begins.
Development
We develop the game in agile sprints. You are closely involved throughout: regular reviews, joint playtests, short feedback cycles.
Testing & Launch
We test with the target audience, optimise the game and support the launch, including accompanying materials and marketing, if desired.
What our partners say
The agile and dedicated collaboration with Paintbucket Games was characterized by mutual appreciation and an honest understanding of the complex topic of remembrance.
Working with Paintbucket Games was a thoroughly professional and reliable experience. Particularly noteworthy are their transparent communication, high flexibility, and continuous support even after release. Paintbucket Games is a dedicated partner with a high level of technical and professional expertise. Based on this experience, we would recommend the team without reservation.
Working with Paintbucket Games is always a truly special experience for us: the passion, creativity, and professionalism with which the entire team brings every idea and even the most ‘challenging’ topics to life is simply impressive and unmatched in today’s gaming industry. If you have a passion for games that make an educational impact, Paintbucket Games is the place for you.