Bigpoint

Bigpoint is a Hamburg-based developer and publisher of free-to-play video games. Founded in 2002 by Heiko Hubertz, the company began as m-wire GmbH before adopting the Bigpoint name in 2006. It became an early European pioneer of browser-based multiplayer games, combining lightweight web technology with free-to-play monetisation and long-running online operations.

Its catalogue includes multiplayer and simulation titles such as DarkOrbit, Seafight, Farmerama, and Drakensang Online. Bigpoint has also developed or published games including Pirate Storm, Skyrama, Battlestar Galactica Online, Rising Cities, Shards of War, and Hocus Puzzle.

Development and publishing

Bigpoint’s work spans the lifecycle of online games, from full-cycle development and live operations to publishing, co-publishing, community management, player support, performance marketing, and user-acquisition integration. Its core capabilities include:

• Browser-based MMORPGs and strategy games
• Free-to-play monetisation and live operations
• Cross-platform releases for web, PC client, Steam, and mobile
• Global publishing, localisation, and co-publishing

The company expanded rapidly during its first decade, building international development and operational hubs and employing more than 800 people worldwide by mid-2011. As player habits shifted toward mobile platforms and digital storefronts, Bigpoint restructured and consolidated its active development operation in Hamburg.

Acquired by Youzu Interactive in 2016, Bigpoint remains active under CEO Chunxia Zhang. It continues to support established online titles while pursuing cross-platform distribution, including the Steam release of Drakensang Online, and co-publishing titles with YOOZOO Games such as Game of Thrones Winter is Coming, Infinity Kingdom, and League of Angels II.