Gyeonggi Province, South Korea – August 18, 2025 – Indie startup Codename Bome, nurtured through Gyeonggi Province’s game industry support programs, has officially signed a global publishing deal worth ₩750 million (approx. $575,000 USD) with leading Korean publisher Smilegate for its debut title Archetype Blue.
The agreement marks a significant milestone as a Gyeonggi-supported startup makes its entry into the global market. Codename Bome has also been selected for the Ministry of SMEs and Startups’ TIPS (Tech Incubator Program for Startups), a rare achievement for a game studio, highlighting the company’s strong potential for both investment and collaboration.
At PlayX4 2025, more than 5,000 visitors stopped by the studio’s booth, while the game secured over 3,300 Steam wishlist registrations, demonstrating both creative appeal and market viability.
Founded in 2022, Codename Bome first gained attention after winning 3rd place at the Gyeonggi Game Audition with its prototype “King’s Stone” (now Archetype Blue). The studio went on to join the Gyeonggi Global Game Center, benefiting from workspace support and regional initiatives such as PlayX4 exhibitions.
Since then, Archetype Blue and its creators have received wide recognition, including:
- 2023 Indie Game of the Year (Korea Mobile Game Association)
- Player’s Voice Award at G-Star Indie Awards 2023
- One Pick Indie Award at BIC Festival 2023
These accolades underscore the team’s creative capabilities and industry potential.
Bae Young-sang, Director of Gyeonggi Province’s Digital Innovation Division, stated:
“Codename Bome is a prime example of how Gyeonggi’s game support policies can translate into tangible results. We will continue providing tailored, step-by-step support to help startups grow from foundation to global success.”
Gyeonggi Province continues to strengthen its gaming ecosystem through programs such as PlayX4, Gyeonggi Game Audition, Gyeonggi Game Connect, independent production grants, Gyeonggi Game Academy, and overseas exhibition support.
For more information on Gyeonggi’s support programs, visit the Gyeonggi Content Agency (www.gcon.or.kr).
