Umeå-based Windup Games Wins Double at Gamescom

As Gamescom came to a close this weekend, it was clear that Hela had become one of the event’s big winners. The competition was tough – in the Most Entertaining category, Hela went up against heavyweights such as MarioKart World, Donkey Kong Bananza, and Grounded 2. For Most Wholesome, the title competed with Winter Burrow and Tiny Book Shop, among others.

– The competition was fierce, and we’re truly grateful for this recognition. Standing on stage in Cologne alongside such strong titles was an incredible honor, says Studio Head Alexander Benitez of Windup Games.

A Local Touch

Windup Games draws much of its inspiration from its surroundings in Umeå. The nature and people of northern Sweden have left a clear mark on the world of Hela, something the team believes gives the game a unique authenticity and atmosphere.

The Winning Concept

The studio highlights two main factors behind their success: a strong focus on co-op and a unique gameplay mechanic. Several team members have extensive experience in cooperative gaming, a genre currently in high demand. In Hela, this is combined with a fluid and polished game experience that encourages players to explore at their own pace.

– We want to create a world that doesn’t dictate fixed goals, but instead invites you to return simply because it’s fun and because you want to spend time with your friends, says Jakob Marklund at Windup Games.

Supported by Arctic Game

Behind the success also stands a strong regional ecosystem. Through Arctic Game and the project Game Attraction North, Windup Games has received support and access to networks that have helped them grow internationally.

– It’s fantastic to see a local studio from Umeå now stepping onto the global stage. The success of Windup Games shows that our region can foster games of world-class quality, says Andreas De Faria Waleij, Project Manager for Arctic Game in Umeå.

Looking Ahead

After their triumph in Cologne, the studio is now focusing all efforts on finalizing Hela, scheduled for release next year. The awards have given the team confidence to continue on their chosen path – developing playful, beautiful co-op games for a global audience.

Gamescom in Cologne is the world’s largest gaming event, drawing hundreds of thousands of enthusiasts, developers, and industry professionals every year. For Windup Games, this year’s awards mean not only recognition for Hela, but also a clear signal that the northern Swedish games industry is ready to take its place on the international stage.