Thimbleweed Park 2 is reportedly being backed by an anonymous wealthy outsider rather than relying on crowdfunding or traditional publishing deals, according to a report by Jason Schreier at Bloomberg featuring creator Ron Gilbert.
Quick Facts
- Developer: Terrible Toybox (Creator: Ron Gilbert)
- Target Release: Early 2028
- Funding Source: An anonymous individual outside the games industry who is a fan of the original game
- Platforms: Not yet officially confirmed
Why Traditional Publishing and Crowdfunding Were Avoided
Gilbert successfully raised over $620,000 via Kickstarter for the 2017 cult classic original game. However, he chose to skip crowdfunding for the sequel. He also held discussions with traditional publishers before ruling them out over financial terms.
"I don’t mind the publisher earning back their money," Gilbert told Bloomberg. "It’s just that once they have earned back their money and become whole, they still want the majority of the money. Or there are really goofy terms, like you don’t make anything unless it’s a major hit. I always felt that was unfair."
How the Sole Investor Deal Works
The project came together after a mutual acquaintance connected Gilbert with an anonymous benefactor who wanted to finance an adventure game. Gilbert proposed a budget covering roughly two years of development, factoring in inflation and fair pay for the team above the $1 million cost of the first game.
The investor agreed to the proposal without requesting standard publishing control. "This deal is a lot more fair in that he gets whole very quickly, and then it’s a reasonable split," Gilbert said.
Development is targeting an early 2028 launch. While platforms have not been formally announced, point-and-click adventure titles frequently make their way to Nintendo platforms, leaving room for potential Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch 2 versions down the line.