Returnal director Harry Krueger’s new studio, Cosmic Division, is currently working on an “unapologetically gameplay-first experience.”
Cosmic Division, the new Finland-based game studio established by former Housemarque director Harry Krueger, who led the development of games like Returnal, Nex Machina, and Resogun, has shared in a press release that it is already teasing its first project as a single-player title focused on gameplay, emotional storytelling, and audiovisual spectacle.
In a statement announcing the studio’s formation, Krueger talked about his time at Housemarque while outlining the vision behind Cosmic Division. “I’m incredibly grateful to Housemarque for our shared journey, which has shaped the foundations for our new studio,” he said. “We’re proud of what we’ve achieved, but we’re not standing still. At Cosmic Division, we’re building on our strengths while finding a new edge through fresh themes, ideas and talent. We believe there is always room for games built on timeless values that trust the player and leave a lasting impact.”
Rather than pursuing large-scale expansion, Cosmic Division will operate with a “lean-and-mean” philosophy focused on sustainable development, rapid iteration, and craftsmanship. The Helsinki-based studio plans to maintain a compact structure where every decision is guided by what benefits the game itself.
The studio’s first project is currently in pre-production and will be a brand-new IP for PC and consoles. While specific details have not yet been revealed, Cosmic Division described it as a game that will deliver “an unapologetically gameplay-first experience and a story with strong emotional resonance.” It is also said to reflect the studio’s heritage in fast-paced action design while exploring new creative directions.
That description will likely catch the attention of fans of Returnal and Housemarque’s arcade-inspired design philosophy, particularly given Krueger’s long history with mechanically demanding action games.
The Returnal director also discussed the kind of experiences the team hopes to continue creating at Cosmic Division. “We’re excited to push further into the experiences we love creating: intoxicating gameplay loops, audiovisual spectacle, and impactful stories that linger with players long after the credits have rolled,” he said. “We have our feet on the ground and have solid foundations beneath us. Now our journey of cosmic wonder begins, as we venture towards the stars… and beyond.”
Krueger also helped shape the early direction of Housemarque’s recently released action roguelike game, Saros, before it entered full production.
