A regionally-focused video game publisher, Midwest Games, was recently launched, founded by industry veteran and former Netflix senior manager Ben Kvalo. Midwest Games will focus on creating opportunities for talent across the Midwest and other underrepresented regions. Headquartered in Green Bay, Midwest Games works in residence at the offices of partner and lead investor TitletownTech, a venture capital firm anchored by the Green Bay Packers and Microsoft.
Joining the inaugural executive team with Kvalo as co-founder and head of partnerships is former XSET co-owner and Chief Experience Officer Rob Martin III. Additional key hires include former Vice President at Crunchyroll and Discovery Communications Jennifer Corbett, who will serve as the chief marketing officer, and former ProbablyMonsters and Harebrained Schemes Production Leader Chris Klimecky as chief project officer. Advisory board members include former CTO of Striking Distance Studios and Vice President–Technology of 2K Mark James as well as Meta Finance Director Liz Kuehn.
Alongside the launch, Midwest Games also introduces today the company’s debut game, RA RA BOOM developed by Cincinnati-based Gylee Games. RA RA BOOM’s debut earlier this year garnered positive reviews from the top global games media for its refreshing approach to the beat ‘em up format, combat design, and narrative.
Midwest Games will make its public debut as an official sponsor of 2D Con, Minnesota’s largest games and esports event, taking place Aug. 25–27. The event, an all-inclusive, family-friendly, and charitable celebration of the games community, will feature tournaments, live music, games, cosplay, industry guests, and retro games. As a sponsor, Midwest Games’ presence will include a panel introducing Midwest Games on Saturday, Aug. 26 at 1 p.m., a RA RA BOOM Gameplay Contest on Sunday, Aug. 27 at 1 p.m., and more.
