ORIGAME DIGITAL Announces ‘Penguin Colony’ – Lovecraftian Horror Through the Eyes of a Penguin

A Fresh Take on Lovecraft

‘Penguin Colony’ is the upcoming project from ORIGAME DIGITAL founder Naphtali Faulkner, aiming to reinterpret H.P. Lovecraft’s legacy by focusing on the colonial and racist themes inherent in his work. The game features a penguin protagonist and presents a dual narrative: one from a expedition member unaware of his historical role, and another from the Kaitiaki (guardians), preserving knowledge passed down through generations.

Faulkner describes the game as a return to the experimental, weird era of PS2 games, paying homage to Lovecraftian horror while adding original elements. He argues that Lovecraft unconsciously captured the horror of colonization and imperial indifference, and ‘Penguin Colony’ seeks to explore these parallels.

Development and Team

The project is largely solo, with additional contractors and guest artists, most of whom are Indigenous. Development has been underway for two years full-time. ORIGAME DIGITAL is already planning a trilogy, with ‘Penguin Colony’ as the first installment; the second game will examine the decay of small towns.

Philosophy and Challenges

Faulkner calls video games “the greatest art form” and urges indie studios to keep experimenting rather than playing it safe. He criticizes larger publishers for avoiding risk and suggests they should spin up small experimental studios. As an Indigenous studio, he notes that doors close quickly, making sustainability a constant challenge.

‘Penguin Colony’ will be published by Fellow Traveller and is available for wishlisting on Steam now.