KO_OP

KO_OP is an artist-run, worker-owned independent game development studio based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Founded in 2012 by Saleem Dabbous and Bronson Zgeb, it creates experimental games and interactive art with an emphasis on distinctive visual design, narrative, animation and music. Its founding concept drew on independent music labels: a collective environment where artists could help bring one another’s creative visions to life.

The studio’s work spans cinematic narrative adventures, tactile 3D puzzles and smaller experimental experiences. Its capabilities include original game design, full-cycle development and publishing, alongside co-development and work-for-hire digital design, animation and interactive software. Its projects have appeared across PC, console, mobile and virtual reality platforms.

Games and collaborations

Early projects included Gardenarium and Orchids to Dusk, both released in 2015. KO_OP collaborated with Square Enix Montréal on Lara Croft GO: The Mirror of Spirits in 2016, then released GNOG in 2017. Published by Double Fine Productions, GNOG explored tactile interaction through a stylized 3D puzzle format. The studio followed with the narrative puzzle game Winding Worlds on Apple Arcade and the smaller Dépanneur Nocturne, both in 2020.

In 2023, KO_OP released Ridiculous Fishing EX, a 3D overhaul developed with Vlambeer, and Goodbye Volcano High. The latter is a cinematic narrative adventure exploring personal growth, queer themes and community against the prospect of extinction. Together, these projects reflect the studio’s combination of collaborative development and original narrative work.

Its subsequent project, Young Suns, is a cooperative narrative space life-simulation game. Unveiled in late 2025 and 2026, it entered early access on Xbox while a PC release was being prepared. As of November 2026, the studio continued developing Young Suns and pitching future game prototypes.