Klei Entertainment

Klei Entertainment is a Canadian video game developer and publisher based in Vancouver, British Columbia. Founded in 2005, the studio creates original games across survival, simulation, stealth, action and tactical genres. Its work combines stylized art direction with systems that encourage experimentation, player choice and emergent gameplay.

The studio began with the physics-puzzle game Eets in 2006 and subsequently developed the side-scrolling action games Shank and Shank 2. Its portfolio expanded with Mark of the Ninja, a two-dimensional stealth game, and Don't Starve, a wilderness survival game distinguished by its hand-drawn, Gothic storybook presentation. The standalone multiplayer game Don't Starve Together extended that survival experience into cooperative play.

Klei's other original projects demonstrate a broad approach to game design. Invisible, Inc. explores turn-based tactical espionage, while Oxygen Not Included centres on managing a space colony through interacting simulation systems. Griftlands combines role-playing with deckbuilding, Hot Lava focuses on first-person platforming, and Rotwood brings cooperative combat to a dungeon-crawling brawler. Across these projects, the studio's capabilities include animation, concept art, custom game-engine development and technology engineering for multiple platforms.

Development and publishing

Alongside its own games, the company operates Klei Publishing, supporting projects created by external independent developers. Its publishing catalogue includes Crypt of the NecroDancer, Rift of the NecroDancer, Mind Over Magic and Beastieball. This activity complements its internal development work with funding, distribution and publishing support for other teams.

Community feedback, Early Access development and continued post-launch support form part of Klei's production approach. The studio works across PC, console and mobile markets, with an emphasis on original intellectual property and iterative development.

Tencent acquired a majority stake in the company in January 2021 through Proxima Beta Europe B.V. Klei continues to operate as a distinct studio, retaining creative and operational autonomy under the arrangement described in the acquisition announcement.