Following its spin-off from Xbox as part of a significant company restructuring, Compulsion Games has regained full rights to its BAFTA-winning title, South of Midnight. The studio, which was among those affected by layoffs during the Xbox reset, now directly benefits from any sales of the game, as its publisher is now listed as Compulsion Games on Steam.
This change in ownership means that purchasing South of Midnight now directly supports the independent studio. Previously, proceeds from the game would have gone to Xbox. The shift offers a new opportunity for players who may have held back from purchasing the game due to its prior association with the larger company.
South of Midnight has been lauded as a "true-blue Southern Gothic African American love letter." The game's narrative and artistic direction have been praised for evoking a sense of home and cultural resonance, even for those who did not grow up in the American South. It has been described as an accessible introduction to Southern culture that can be appreciated by a broad audience.
The game features a character named Catfish, who guides the protagonist Hazel. Details within the game have been noted for their authentic representation of Black culture, including elements reminiscent of praying grandmothers and a distinct appreciation for Black art. These nuances contribute to a rich and personal experience for many players.
With Compulsion Games now operating independently, the studio is free from external corporate influences that may have previously deterred potential players. This new chapter for the studio and its acclaimed title encourages those who have been on the fence to experience the game for themselves.