In an industry often dominated by large corporations, Pacific Sky Games is carving out a unique space for independent tabletop wargame creators. The company, which began as an international distributor in 2002, has pivoted to become a publisher focused on empowering game designers while building a community centered around creativity and collaboration.
The shift comes at a time when many independent game designers struggle to find equitable partnerships in the publishing world. According to Bryan Shein, President of Pacific Sky Games, the company's mission extends beyond traditional publishing relationships.
"I'll see you on the battlefield!"
Shein states, embodying the hands-on approach that distinguishes the company from larger industry players.What sets Pacific Sky Games apart is its creator-centric business model. Unlike traditional publishing arrangements where designers often surrender ownership rights, creators who publish through Pacific Sky retain full ownership of their rule systems. Additionally, the company offers profit-sharing programs that aim to provide more equitable compensation compared to industry standards.
The Native-American-owned small business began its journey by focusing on indie games and product lines, supported by a team that conducted demonstration games at local stores. This grassroots approach helped the company understand the challenges faced by game creators in historical and science fiction genres, ultimately leading to their 2024 transformation into a publisher dedicated to supporting independent designers.
Beyond publishing, tabletop wargame publishing services at Pacific Sky Games emphasize community building. The company describes itself as "wargamers supporting wargamers," suggesting a collaborative ecosystem rather than a traditional publisher-creator relationship. This community-focused approach aims to create an environment where designers can thrive with support from like-minded enthusiasts.
For creators looking to bring their tabletop concepts to market, the company offers a partnership that balances creative freedom with professional publishing support. The miniature wargame publisher provides designers with resources while allowing them to maintain their creative vision, addressing a gap many independent creators face when seeking publishing partnerships.
As the tabletop gaming industry continues to expand, Pacific Sky Games' model represents an alternative path for creators who might otherwise struggle to find footing in a competitive market. By focusing on equitable partnerships and community building, the company is working to reshape how wargames are developed, published and enjoyed by enthusiasts around the world.