Secret Mode Takes a Step Forward with Development Studio Opening in Sheffield
In a move that promises to bring new life to its existing portfolio, Secret Mode has announced the opening of a development studio in Sheffield. This strategic expansion is set to support internal projects, including ongoing titles and upcoming releases, as well as provide additional support to external developers.
The new studio will be led by Dan Secker, Secret Mode’s VP of technology and operations, who brings a wealth of experience from his time at Sumo Group. He’ll be joined by Jacob Habgood, the former lead developer on the football management game NUTMEG!, as technical development director. Habgood’s enthusiasm for the project is evident in his statement about Sheffield being “a place where creativity and talent can flourish,” highlighting the region’s thriving gaming community.
This development studio marks a significant step forward for Secret Mode, which went independent last year after splitting from Sumo Group. The publisher has been working to establish itself as a major player in the industry, with titles like Escape the Backrooms and Chained Together already generating buzz. The upcoming Star Wars: Galactic Racer is also set to be a major draw for fans of the franchise.
The new studio will focus on supporting Secret Mode’s existing portfolio by releasing updates, DLCs, and ports to new platforms. This move not only ensures that players continue to enjoy their favorite games but also opens up opportunities for external developers to collaborate with the publisher. By providing additional support, Secret Mode aims to keep its games thriving long after launch.
Secker’s vision for the studio is clear: “I wanted to build a team dedicated to keeping Secret Mode’s games thriving, bringing them to new platforms for a wider audience and keeping players engaged long after launch.” His experience and leadership will undoubtedly be instrumental in shaping the studio’s direction and ensuring its success.
This development marks an exciting time for VR enthusiasts, as it suggests that Secret Mode is committed to delivering high-quality experiences across various platforms. With this new studio up and running, fans can expect to see more of their favorite titles receive updates and expansions, potentially even including VR-specific content.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, publishers like Secret Mode are taking steps to adapt and innovate. By investing in its own development capabilities, Secret Mode is positioning itself for long-term success and cementing its place as a major player in the VR landscape. With this new studio leading the charge, we can expect to see even more exciting projects from the publisher in the future.
Source: Game Developer XR — 2026-08-05