RocketWerkz

RocketWerkz is a New Zealand-based independent video game development studio founded in December 2014 by game designer Dean Hall, best known for his work on '' DayZ''. Headquartered in Dunedin with an additional studio in Auckland, RocketWerkz specializes in survival and simulation games.

History

After departing from Bohemia Interactive in early 2014, Dean Hall returned to his native New Zealand with the aim of fostering the local game development scene. In December 2014, he established RocketWerkz in Dunedin. The name "RocketWerkz" is derived from Hall's nickname "Rocket," which he earned during his time in the New Zealand Army.

The studio initially focused on experimental projects and exploring new technologies, including virtual reality (VR). In September 2015, RocketWerkz announced a partnership with Chinese technology conglomerate Tencent, which acquired a minority stake in the company. This investment allowed RocketWerkz to expand its development capabilities and workforce.

In 2019, the company expanded by opening a second studio in Auckland aimed to facilitate the development of larger-scale projects, such as the ambitious survival game ''Icarus''. The Auckland studio attracted industry veterans and international talent, contributing to the growth of New Zealand's game development industry.

Games developed

''Out of Ammo'' (2016)

''Out of Ammo'' is a virtual reality strategy game that combines first-person shooter and real-time strategy elements. Released for the HTC Vive in September 2016, the game allows players to build defenses and command units to repel waves of enemies. It was one of the early VR titles that showcased innovative gameplay mechanics.

''Out of Ammo: Death Drive'' (2017)

A sequel to the original game, ''Out of Ammo: Death Drive'' is a VR action title set in a post-apocalyptic world. Released in August 2017, it expanded on the mechanics of its predecessor by introducing new environments, enemies, and weapons, offering a more intense and chaotic experience.

''Stationeers''

Released on Steam Early Access in December 2017, ''Stationeers'' is a space station simulation game inspired by ''Space Station 13''. The game emphasizes complex systems and engineering, allowing players to construct and manage space stations with detailed physics, atmospheric mechanics, and intricate resource management.

''Icarus''

''Icarus'' is a session-based player-versus-environment survival game released on December 3, 2021. Set on a terraformed but hostile alien planet, players undertake timed missions called "prospects" to gather resources, craft equipment, and survive against environmental hazards and wildlife. A key mechanic involves returning to an orbital station before the mission timer expires; failure to do so results in the loss of the character and progress. ''Icarus'' received mixed reviews, praised for its visuals and survival mechanics but criticized for technical issues at launch.

''Art of the Rail''

''Art of the Rail'' is an upcoming transport simulation game inspired by classic transport tycoon titles. Players can construct and manage extensive transport networks using roads, rails, tunnels, and bridges, aiming to build a profitable transport empire that influences the in-game economy. The game offers both single-player and multiplayer modes, supporting up to 16 players in cooperative or competitive settings. It features a detailed financial simulation, allowing players to analyze expenses and profits, and includes comprehensive modding support with built-in asset editing tools. As of February 2025, "Art of the Rail" is available for wishlisting on Steam, with its release date yet to be announced.

''Kitten Space Agency''

In October 2024, Hall announced that RocketWerkz had started work on a new game titled ''Kitten Space Agency'', designed as a spiritual successor to ''Kerbal Space Program'' (''KSP'') "to replicate the same feeling, commitment, and challenge of existing KSP", following the reported closure of Intercept Games and development freeze of ''Kerbal Space Program 2''. Rocketwerkz was one of the top three companies bidding to make ''Kerbal Space Program 2'' for Private Division, but was not chosen, and the development team of ''Kitten Space Agency'' features several ''Kerbal Space Program'' modders. The game is expected to offer a seamless universe without loading screens, featuring off-world base building, life support systems, and multiplayer functionality. The game will also have extensive modding capabilities, allowing players to customize various aspects, including the Solar System, as well as possibly offering the "reachier goal" of ''n''-body physics. An initial free playable version is anticipated in 2025, although Hall stated that "it is critical to be skeptical" of a complex project such as this.

Operations

RocketWerkz operates two main studios:
* Dunedin Studio: Focuses on smaller, experimental projects and serves as the original hub of the company.
* Auckland Studio: Concentrates on larger, more ambitious titles like ''Icarus'' and houses a significant portion of the company's workforce.

The company has played a substantial role in developing the gaming industry in New Zealand, offering opportunities for local talent and attracting international professionals. RocketWerkz's growth aligns with Dean Hall's vision to establish New Zealand as a notable location for game development.

See also

* Video gaming in New Zealand

References

{{Reflist

External links

Official website

Video game companies of New Zealand
New Zealand companies established in 2014
Companies based in Dunedin
Video game companies established in 2014
Indie game developers