How Lunar Owl Connected Playtonic and PM Studios for a Hit Collaboration

Overview

Playtonic Games partnered with Lunar Owl Consulting to find the right publishing partner for Yooka-Replaylee, a reimagined release from the beloved Yooka-Laylee franchise. Playtonic needed guidance on positioning the opportunity for the market, refining messaging, navigating contract negotiations, and accessing a wider network of potential partners. Lunar Owl delivered on all fronts—resulting in a successful partnership, a smooth co-publishing deal, and a critically acclaimed game launch.

client
Playtonic Games
Services
Publishing
The Challenge

Playtonic had a strong game and a respected IP but needed support to:

  • Identify a co-publishing partner aligned with their vision
  • Shape the opportunity for the market in a compelling, commercial way
  • Refine messaging and materials to resonate with publishers
  • Navigate contract negotiations and procurement
  • Establish a productive relationship with the eventual partner

They needed someone who could bridge creative vision and business execution—and tap into a deeper network than they could reach alone.

Our Approach

Lunar Owl leveraged its extensive industry network and strategic experience to guide Playtonic through every stage of the process.

1. Finding the Right Partner

We presented curated opportunities from our network and introduced Playtonic to PM Studios—who immediately saw the potential in the project and were eager to collaborate.

2. Facilitating the Deal

We led the negotiation and deal-structuring process, working with both parties to:

  • Align expectations
  • Shape favorable commercial terms
  • Construct a mutually agreeable contract
  • Ensure clarity and confidence for both sides

Our involvement ensured a smooth, balanced, and transparent agreement.

3. Strengthening the Partnership

Throughout production and launch, Lunar Owl provided ongoing support to both Playtonic and PM Studios, strengthening communication and helping maintain a healthy, collaborative partnership. This foundation proved critical to the project’s success.

Final thoughts

The Results

Yooka-Replaylee launched to excellent reviews, earning a 93% “Very Positive” rating on Steam and strong community reception. Both Playtonic and PM Studios praised the partnership, citing the smooth collaboration and shared commitment to quality.

The success of the game has positioned the two companies to work together again on future projects, creating a sustainable and mutually beneficial publishing relationship.

Why It Worked

Lunar Owl’s role was instrumental in:

  • Bringing the right partners together
  • Positioning the opportunity effectively for publishers
  • Supporting both parties through negotiation and contracting
  • Strengthening the relationship long-term

By combining market insight with hands-on dealmaking, we ensured Playtonic had the strategic support they needed to turn a promising project into a commercial and critical success.

Your Next Partnership Starts Here

Whether you're a developer looking for the right publisher or a publisher seeking standout projects, Lunar Owl helps you build partnerships that lead to long-term success. Let’s create your next opportunity.

“We've been working with Lunar Owl Consulting for the past couple of years, and their impact has been tangible. They’ve consistently brought us new opportunities, forged valuable industry relationships, and provided thoughtful strategic advice that’s helped shape our business. Lunar Owl has become a trusted partner for Playtonic, and we highly recommend them.”

Playtonic

“We've been working with Lunar Owl Consulting for the past couple of years, and their impact has been tangible. Howard and Colin helped us secure a publishing partner for Yooka-Replaylee with PM Studios and guided us through every step of the deal. Beyond that, they’ve consistently brought us new opportunities, forged valuable industry relationships, and provided thoughtful strategic advice that’s helped shape our business. Lunar Owl has become a trusted partner for Playtonic, and we highly recommend them.”

Playtonic

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