By Sagar V. Mankar 
Newly established South Korean game developer and publisher Hybe IM announced a publishing agreement with Bonfire Studio for their upcoming game, Project Torch.
Bonfire Studio brings an impressive background to the table. The studio was founded by former Blizzard Entertainment veterans, including Rob Pardo, a key figure behind legendary titles like StarCraft, Warcraft 3, and World of Warcraft. Joining him are Nick Carpenter, previously Blizzard’s vice president of cinematic arts, and Min Kim, the former head of Nexon America.
Project Torch is Bonfire Studio’s first PC-based online multiplayer game. The title focuses on team-based PvP (player versus player) gameplay, blending competition with cooperation to deliver a unique experience for gamers.
Under the agreement, Hybe IM will handle publishing in Korea and Japan while Bonfire Studio manages the Western markets. Additionally, Hybe IM will contribute to the game’s development.
Jung Woo-yong, CEO of Hybe IM, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Bonfire Studio is a team of exceptional creativity and technical expertise. This collaboration is a stepping stone toward offering innovative gaming experiences globally.” He further highlighted Hybe IM’s ambition to grow as a leading publisher in the international market.
Rob Pardo emphasized the strategic importance of Korea, calling it a “key market with significant cultural influence and a critical testing ground for PvP games.” He believes this partnership will play a pivotal role in introducing Project Torch to audiences worldwide.
Hybe IM, a subsidiary of Hybe Corporation, is widely known for its association with K-pop groups like BTS, NewJeans, Le Sserafim, and Seventeen. Last year, the company made headlines by raising over $80 million from a funding round to expand its game development and publishing efforts.