Reforged Studios acquires Headup Games, the publisher of Super Meat Boy 3D, in a deal that brings the German publisher into Reforged’s wider development and publishing network. The companies have not disclosed the financial terms. Headup’s team will remain in place, and the acquisition will not result in job losses.
Image credit: Team Meat/Sluggerfly
Reforged Studios acquires Headup Games to expand publishing
Reforged described the acquisition as an important step in developing its publishing platform and supporting independent studios. Under the new arrangement, Headup will be able to draw on Reforged’s broader development and publishing network while continuing to operate as a publisher.
The announcement does not include details about changes to Headup’s catalogue, release plans or day-to-day processes. For developers and players, the confirmed immediate points are that the existing team stays unchanged and that no job losses are planned as a result of the transaction.
Headup founder Dieter Schoeller takes a wider role
Founder Dieter Schoeller will continue managing Headup’s operations. He has also been appointed chief publishing officer at Reforged Studios and will report directly to the company’s founders.
Reforged CEO Peter van der Watt said Headup had built a respected, carefully selected portfolio through its support for developers and its editorial direction. He said bringing those capabilities into Reforged would strengthen the company’s publishing platform and contribute to its long-term growth plans.
Schoeller said the decision was based on finding an aligned team rather than pursuing growth in scale alone. He believes the shared understanding of games will allow Headup to develop while retaining the qualities that define the publisher.
What the acquisition means for independent studios
For independent developers considering a publishing partner, the announced structure points to continuity at Headup alongside access to Reforged’s wider network. The companies have not provided specific information about how that support will work, so developers should confirm project terms, responsibilities and available resources directly with the relevant publishing team.
The deal also leaves important details open. No purchase price or financial terms have been made public, and there is no announced timetable for operational changes. The statements so far focus on Headup’s team, Schoeller’s leadership responsibilities and the potential role of the combined publishing network.
What to watch next
Further announcements may clarify how Reforged and Headup will coordinate publishing projects and whether their existing portfolios or plans will change. Until then, the confirmed news is straightforward: Reforged Studios acquires Headup Games, Headup’s staff remain in place, and Schoeller will lead the publisher’s operations while taking on a senior publishing role at Reforged.