Get ready for a fresh wave of innovation in the world of VR game development, as a group of triple-A veterans and accessibility experts have joined forces to launch Raze and Rebuild Studio – a worker-owned co-operative that promises to shake up the industry’s traditional business models. This exciting new venture is the brainchild of a team of seasoned developers who are determined to put people before profits, with a focus on creating games that not only entertain but also make a positive impact.
At the helm of Raze and Rebuild Studio are founding members Tanya DePass, Tarja Porkka-Kontturi, Laura Kate Dale, and Ian Schreiber – a diverse group of experts who bring a wealth of experience in game development, accessibility, and business to the table. According to Dale, the studio’s debut project will be a thought-provoking title that tackles real-world issues and lived experiences, with a dash of satire and humor thrown in for good measure. “We’re interested in games that have an impact,” she explains, “and we want our first game to be something that resonates with players on a deeper level.”
What sets Raze and Rebuild Studio apart from other studios is its commitment to accessibility – both in terms of the games they create and the way they work. By embracing a co-operative model, the studio’s founders aim to create a more inclusive environment where workers can thrive, regardless of their abilities or circumstances. “One of the most important aspects of going for a co-op model is how that intersects with accessibility,” notes Dale. “We’re structuring our work in a way that addresses the unpredictable nature of disability and supports workers’ fluctuating abilities.”
The worker-owned co-operative model has been gaining traction in recent years, with studios like KO_OP and Stray Bombay touting its viability as an alternative to traditional game development structures. While Glory Society’s ill-fated attempt to launch a co-op studio highlights the challenges involved, Raze and Rebuild Studio is undaunted by the prospect of taking on the industry giants.
What this means for VR fans is a new wave of innovative games that not only push the boundaries of storytelling and gameplay but also prioritize accessibility and inclusivity. With its commitment to creating games with impact, Raze and Rebuild Studio is poised to become a major player in the VR development scene – and we can’t wait to see what they have in store for us.
As the VR industry continues to evolve and mature, it’s exciting to think about the possibilities that a co-operative like Raze and Rebuild Studio brings to the table. With its focus on accessibility, inclusivity, and worker ownership, this new studio is poised to disrupt traditional business models and create a more equitable and sustainable game development ecosystem – one that benefits both creators and players alike. One thing’s for sure: we’ll be keeping a close eye on Raze and Rebuild Studio as they rise from the ashes of the games industry, with their sights set firmly on shaping the future of VR gaming.
Source: Game Developer XR — 2026-08-19