Croc Publisher Argonaut Games Joins Forces with Indie Developer Ancient Machine for VICE Undercover

Argonaut Games :

September 25th, 2024, MIAMI – Legendary studio Argonaut Games, fresh from announcing their revival with the remaster of cult classic platformer Croc Legend of the Gobbos, has teamed up with indie developer Ancient Machine to help launch VICE Undercover, a deep narrative-driven narco-thriller that aims to redefine the point-and-click adventure genre.

Press kit available here.

Set in a vibrant, alternate 1985 Miami where the internet is already prevalent, VICE Undercover immerses you in a world where drug cartels use advanced technologies such as video surveillance, satellite tracking, and online money transfers. As a result, computer hackers have become the most sought-after operatives in the ongoing turf wars. You play as Vida, an undercover detective in the Electronic Crime Unit, who has tracked down the cartel’s most notorious hacking crew and infiltrated their supercomputer—but only for one hour a day. Using Amigo OS, a retro-inspired operating system, Vida accesses encrypted databases filled with intel on criminals and corrupt officials. She must balance working for both the cartel and the ECU, making morally ambiguous choices with far-reaching consequences, all while facing the constant pressure of having her cover blown—However, in VICE Undercover, nothing is ever as it seems, and everyone has a hidden agenda.

“VICE Undercover is all about pushing the genre’s creative boundaries with its complex, layered narrative and completely unique gameplay. Argonaut recognizing its potential is a huge validation of our vision, and we are thrilled to be working alongside Argonaut’s management team to deliver our debut title” says Cos Lazouras, co-founder of Ancient Machine.

Argonaut Games, driven by their profound enthusiasm for innovation, has chosen to invest in Ancient Machine, recognizing its unique potential to create compelling original games in a competitive market. Esteemed industry veterans Jez San OBE, Mike Arkin, and Gary Sheinwald from Argonaut will be joining the advisory board of Ancient Machine, bringing their wealth of experience and knowledge to the table.

“We’ve known Cos (Lazouras) for over 30 years, and when he told us that he had something a little bit different for us to check out, we immediately knew we wanted to become involved. It’s rare to find something so fresh and captivating. VICE Undercover is exactly that, and more…” says Jez San, Argonaut Games’ Founder.

Cos Lazouras and Albert Ramon of Ancient Machine, the creative duo behind VICE Undercover, have self-funded the game’s development. Now, with Argonaut’s investment and support they gain not only financial backing but also invaluable insights and advice, ensuring the game’s development process stays true to its indie roots while also benefiting from the wisdom of a team of seasoned experts.

Press kit available here.

About Ancient Machine
Ancient Machine is a micro-sized independent game studio founded in 2019 by a few seasoned developers from titles including cult-classic, The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay, PAYDAY, Asphalt Series, and going back to Super Nintendo hits such as Wolverine: Adamantium Rage and Spider-man 3 on Game Boy. VICE Undercover is the studio's first title, a narco-thriller saga where gameplay revolves around an undercover assignment for the powerful drug cartels, working within an old-school desktop computer operating system. ancientmachinegames.com

About Argonaut Games
The reborn Argonaut Games continues the legacy of the pioneering development studio founded by Jez San OBE in 1982, now a boutique publisher driven by creativity and developer collaboration. Our talented team of industry veterans dedicates itself to delivering high-quality games that entertain, inspire, and challenge players of all ages. Possessing a catalog of classic gaming IP combined with a roadmap of original games, we hope you will join us as we embark on this exciting new chapter in Argonaut’s history. argonautgames.com