About
About Airship Syndicate
Airship Syndicate is an American video game developer based in Austin, Texas. Founded in 2014 by ex-Vigil Games staff including comic legend Joe Madureira, they are known for Battle Chasers: Nightwar, Darksiders Genesis, and Ruined King.
Company History
- Founded: 2014
- Location: Austin, Texas
- Founders: Joe Madureira, Ryan Stefanelli, Steve Madureira
- Origin: Ex-Vigil Games (Darksiders creators)
Leadership
- Joe Madureira: CEO, comic book artist (Battle Chasers, X-Men), creative director on Darksiders I & II
- Ryan Stefanelli: President, ex-Vigil Games and Crytek USA
Notable Games
- Battle Chasers: Nightwar (2017) - Turn-based RPG, Kickstarter success ($850K+)
- Darksiders Genesis (2019) - Isometric action RPG
- Ruined King: A League of Legends Story (2021) - Riot Forge published
- Wayfinder (2024) - MMO, now self-published
Studio Philosophy
After Vigil Games grew too large before THQ's bankruptcy, the founders wanted to build a lean, fun, independent studio creating quality games across platforms.
Technical Approach
They work with remote teams and external partners, managing outsource efforts across projects while maintaining their distinctive art style.
Note
Airship Syndicate is primarily a game developer creating original IP rather than an outsourcing service provider. Listed for reference as an Austin-based studio.
Why Airship Syndicate Matters
- Joe Madureira comic legend founder
- Darksiders franchise heritage
- Riot Games partnership (Ruined King)
- Austin, Texas game dev hub
- Kickstarter success track record