Ron Gilbert, creator of the Monkey Island series, chose an unconventional path to finance Thimbleweed Park 2: a private investor. According to Gilbert in an interview with Rock Paper Shotgun, the decision reflects frustrations with modern publishing models and the challenge of funding traditional adventure games through mainstream channels.
Gilbert explained that creating a new Monkey Island would be "really complicated" because of the rights held by multiple companies involved. As a result, he opted to sidestep conventional publishers for Thimbleweed Park 2, a title announced last month and slated for 2028.
The move reflects a broader trend in the industry, where independent studios and veteran creators are seeking alternatives to traditional financing. Private investor backing offers greater creative control, though it carries its own risks compared to the safety net of a major publisher.
Thimbleweed Park 2 launches in 2028, with PC confirmed as a platform.
