We’ve said it before, and we will continue to repeat it: some studios just get it. They understand that games aren’t just meant to be fun (though that is a major part of gaming). They’re meant to make you feel something. Think deeper. Feel inspired, and maybe even see yourself in a whole new light. That’s why we’re so excited to introduce you to our newest partner: Dusk Wave Arts.
So, who are they?
Dusk Wave Arts (aka DWA) is a remote-first, multicultural game studio with a huge heart. DWA is led by a diverse team based in Canada, the United States, Japan, Mexico, and the
Philippines, and they do one thing better than just about anyone: tell emotionally powerful stories.
They don’t build games around trends or viral moments. They build around meaning and depth. Their stories ask the big and sometimes scary questions: Why do we act the way we do? What makes us hold on? What does it take to let go? Every game is packed with purpose, and you can feel it in every scene, every decision, and every line of dialogue.
Why they started
The studio began with one core idea: stories are worth telling when they come from a real place. The founder had stories that needed to be told, but knew they couldn’t do it alone. So they brought together a team of creatives who weren’t just talented, but also thoughtful individuals who share the same beliefs. People who care deeply about why stories matter, and what stories are capable of doing when we take them seriously. That idea became a team. Then that team became a studio, and ultimately, all together they became DWA.
What makes them different?
Let’s start with the vibes. DWA calls itself a storytelling people-first studio, and they mean it.
Every project starts with questions, themes, and emotional arcs. Before there are any mechanics or maps, there’s meaning. They also prioritize collaboration like it’s an art form. Every voice matters. No one’s boxed into a corner. Everyone from devs to writers to marketing is encouraged to pitch in, question things, and shape the story.
The result? Games that feel real. Not just polished, but personal. Games that feel as if they’re made for you.
Let’s talk about the game: Stuck in the Present
Coming to Steam this August, Stuck in the Present is DWA’s newest release, and trust us, it’s not your typical horror game. This one hits differently.
It’s psychological horror, yes. But it’s built around something much deeper: the experience of being stuck; not knowing who you are anymore, of being suspended between your past and your future, unsure how to move forward or backward, stuck being surrounded with all the what-ifs. Remember the emotionally powerful and meaningful storytelling? Stuck in the Present is rooted in the Filipino immigrant experience. Developed by a multicultural team, many of whom brought their own personal and lived experiences into the process. The game explores generational pressure, identity fragmentation, and the emotional weight of trying to belong in two worlds at once.
It’s slow-burning, character-driven, and unforgettable. And the fear? It doesn’t come from monsters. It comes from truth, experience, and the heart and soul of those who’ve lived it.
Meet the humans behind the magic
Let’s just say: this team is full of heart. Even though they work remotely, DWA makes connections and puts people first as a priority. They make sure to take time to fly out to meet each other face to face. They’ve celebrated anniversaries with Filipino food and long walks through the city. They make sure to check in not just on the work, but on each other. The marketing team? All women. All badass. and split between Canada and the Philippines. But what’s really cool is that their role goes beyond just promoting games. They help protect the meaning behind each project, making sure the heart of the story doesn’t get lost in the noise.
Also important facts:
● Most of the team has cats, except for the marketing team, who all have dogs.
● All pets make many appearances, including profiles, memes, and sometimes even
meetings. (We approve)
What they stand for
DWA isn’t trying to be the biggest. They’re trying to be the most meaningful. Their games are built to last not just in memory, but in feeling. DWA wants you to feel heard, included, and understood. They want to create experiences that stay with you. Stories that make you ask questions. That offer comfort. That push you to grow. The kind of games that helped shape them when they were younger, only now, it’s their turn to give back. They’re building a legacy, not a moment. And we’re honored to be part of that.
Why we’re teaming up
This partnership made sense from the very beginning. Femme Gaming is about elevating real stories, authentic creators, and underrepresented voices. DWA is all of that and more. They’re building games for the players who don’t always see themselves represented or understood in gaming. For the players who want more than just high scores and boss fights. For the ones who are ready to feel something. And we’re here for it.
Looking Ahead
Femme Gaming is proud to support Dusk Wave Arts in this next chapter. We look forward to amplifying their vision, highlighting the incredible team behind their games, and sharing stories that resonate across cultures and communities. We’ll be spotlighting Stuck in the Present, collaborating on content, and bringing DWA’s voice to even more players this year. This is more than a partnership. It’s a shared mission and we’re just getting started.
Edit by Willow Bridges
