Emptyvessel Raises 11 Million to Develop Cyberpunk Shooter Defect

Emptyvessel, an independent game studio, has successfully raised a total of $11 million, combining its earlier seed round with a recent Series A funding. This significant capital injection is set to fuel the continued development of their first game, Defect, a cyberpunk-themed immersive objective shooter. The studio’s debut trailer has already garnered impressive attention, with over 1.9 million views on YouTube, signaling strong community interest.

Defect is designed as a squad-based shooter set in a dystopian world controlled by AI-driven police forces. Players engage in intense multi-objective battles against rogue gangs, with immersive single-player and multiplayer modes planned. The game’s atmosphere is enhanced by award-winning composer Mick Gordon, known for his work on titles like Doom and Borderlands 3.

The Series A round was led by NCSoft and 1AM Gaming, alongside other investors including Black Phoenix Games and Sisu Game Ventures. NCSoft’s involvement extends beyond funding; their CEO of NC America, Jeonghee Jin, has joined Emptyvessel’s board, signaling a strategic, long-term partnership that includes publishing support and industry expertise.

Emptyvessel’s team is composed of seasoned developers with experience on iconic franchises such as Doom, Quake, Call of Duty, Last of Us, and Borderlands. Operating with a remote model, the studio taps into global talent across the U.S., Australia, Europe, and Japan. Currently, the core team consists of 14 members, with plans to expand sustainably while maintaining a focus on quality and innovation.

The new funding will enable Emptyvessel to scale Defect’s development for consoles and enhance single-player support, alongside upgrading studio infrastructure. The studio’s approach emphasizes a developer-first philosophy and sustainable practices, aiming to carve out a new genre within the FPS market.

Industry leaders have expressed strong confidence in Emptyvessel’s vision. NCSoft’s Jeonghee Jin highlighted the studio’s distinct approach to game design and player interaction, while 1AM Gaming’s Gregory Milken praised the fresh perspective Defect brings to first-person shooters. Early investor Dan Bunting of 1AM Gaming emphasized the rewarding journey of supporting the studio’s bold ambitions.

Currently available for wishlisting on Steam and the Epic Games Store, Defect is poised to make a significant impact upon release. With ongoing development showcasing new maps, environmental updates, and innovative weapons like the 'Crowd Control,' Emptyvessel is steadily advancing toward delivering a high-quality, immersive gaming experience.