Fatshark

Overview

Fatshark is an independent video game developer and publisher based in Sweden, specializing in co-operative multiplayer action games for PC and consoles. The company is known for titles in the Warhammer universe, including Warhammer: Vermintide 2 and Warhammer 40,000: Darktide, as well as earlier games like War of the Roses and Krater.¹²³

History

Fatshark was founded in 2007 by Martin Wahlund, Rikard Blomberg, Joakim Wahlström, and Johan Jonker, initially working as subcontractors on AAA titles. The studio transitioned from external projects to self-publishing, releasing games such as Lead and Gold, Krater, War of the Roses, and Warhammer: End Times - Vermintide. Key milestones include the critical acclaim of Warhammer: Vermintide 2 and Warhammer 40,000: Darktide, with a shift from publishers like Paradox Interactive and Deep Silver to full independence.¹²⁴

Product Lines

Manufacturing

As a software company, Fatshark develops games in-house at its Stockholm studio. No physical manufacturing is involved; products are digital releases for PC and consoles.

Notable Products

• Warhammer: Vermintide 2 - Critically acclaimed co-op FPS in Warhammer fantasy setting.
• Warhammer 40,000: Darktide - Co-operative action game set in Warhammer 40k universe.
• Warhammer: End Times - Vermintide - First-person shooter with co-op melee combat.
• Krater - Action RPG with survival elements.
• War of the Roses - Medieval multiplayer combat simulator.

Reputation

Fatshark is regarded by gamers and industry professionals as a capable independent studio for delivering engaging co-op experiences, particularly in the Warhammer franchise, with praise for Vermintide 2's longevity and Darktide's ambition.¹⁴ Some criticism exists around launch issues with titles like Darktide, though the studio's growth to self-publishing is viewed positively. Enthusiasts appreciate the passion for high-profile PC and console games.³