NetEase pulls the plug on another studio: Former Riot exec’s Fantastic Pixel Castle will ‘likely close’ if a new publisher isn’t found soon

Key Takeaways:

• NetEase has ended its partnership with Fantastic Pixel Castle
• The studio was founded in 2023 by ex-Riot Games executive Greg Street
• Fantastic Pixel Castle’s first MMO project is called Ghost
• Without a new publisher, the studio may soon close its doors
• This news stems from reports published on October 10, 2025

NetEase Pulls Support from a Newly Established Studio

Fantastic Pixel Castle, a fledgling game development studio founded in 2023 by former Riot Games executive Greg Street, stands at a critical juncture. Industry giant NetEase, which previously backed the studio, has withdrawn its support, leaving the team’s future—and the fate of its debut project—uncertain.

A Bold Vision Named Ghost

At the heart of Fantastic Pixel Castle’s work is an ambitious MMO titled Ghost. When Greg Street left Riot Games to create his own studio, he set out to develop an online world that would capture players’ imaginations. That vision now hangs in the balance, as the team scrambles to find a new publisher willing to invest in Ghost and keep the project alive.

The Consequences of NetEase’s Exit

Without NetEase’s funding and infrastructure, Fantastic Pixel Castle must secure another partnership or face closure. The studio’s operational costs, talent retention, and marketing for Ghost pose significant hurdles that only a stable publishing deal can overcome. Each day that passes without a solution raises concerns that the MMO, still in early development, might never see release.

Looking to the Future

For now, Fantastic Pixel Castle continues its push to find alternative support. The announcement of NetEase’s withdrawal has sent ripples through the gaming industry, reflecting both the risks of major publisher partnerships and the volatility of new studio endeavors. Whether Ghost adapts and survives or fades away will depend on the team’s ability to finalize a deal quickly and ensure the promising MMO does not become yet another unrealized dream in an ever-changing market.