MONTREAL, QC — A new publishing force is emerging in the video game industry, as Gambit Digital officially launches in Montreal. Founded by a mix of studio heads and veteran publishing executives, the company aims to bring together the flexibility of independent creators with the reach and expertise of global publishers.
Gambit Digital is positioned as part of Montreal’s Indie Asylum, a collaborative ecosystem that connects more than 200 developers across 18 studios. By extending that cooperative model into publishing, the company says it will give developers the tools, strategic support, and commercial pathways needed to compete in a crowded global market.
A Different Publishing Model
At the heart of Gambit’s strategy is a diversified approach to publishing services, tailored to the evolving needs of studios. The company will offer:
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Traditional investment and publishing: Providing project-based support to move titles from concept to launch.
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Shadow publishing: Delivering publishing support while allowing studios to remain the publisher of record.
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Console porting and publishing: Leveraging an in-house porting team to ensure high-quality console releases.
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Post-launch growth: Extending the life of released titles through expanded regions, new sales channels, and creative commercial strategies.
Company leaders say this structure gives developers the freedom to choose the type of partnership that works best for their projects, whether they require end-to-end publishing or specialized assistance at key stages.
Experienced Team, Dual Perspective
What sets Gambit apart, its founders argue, is the makeup of its leadership. The company is spearheaded by Zac Antonaci, Chad Young, and Kevin Chancey, who bring experience both as studio founders and as senior executives at major publishers. Between them, the team has overseen the launch of some of the industry’s most iconic titles and generated sales in the tens of millions worldwide.
“Publishing today has to be more than a transaction—it has to be a long-term partnership,” said Zac Antonaci, CEO of Gambit Digital. “At Gambit Digital, we’re focused on helping and working hand in hand with developers not just to launch their games, but to build sustainable long-term momentum. From porting to post-launch growth, our mission is to expand possibilities and give studios the tools and opportunities to thrive in an ever-changing global market.”
Chris Chancey, co-founder, emphasized the company’s developer-first mindset. “Gambit Digital exists to tilt the playing field in favor of developers,” Chancey said. “We’re builders ourselves. We know what it means to take risks, to scale up, and to find the right partners. Gambit is here to give studios the choice, flexibility, and firepower to succeed—without losing sight of why we make games in the first place.”
Part of Montreal’s Indie Ecosystem
By aligning itself with Indie Asylum, Gambit joins a community already known for fostering collaboration and bold creativity. Indie Asylum has become a hub for small to mid-sized developers in Montreal, offering shared resources and a support network that encourages experimentation. Gambit’s founders say the publishing arm is a natural extension of that ethos.
Industry analysts note that independent studios often struggle with the commercial side of gaming—particularly porting, marketing, and securing distribution channels. By embedding publishing services within a cooperative ecosystem, Gambit hopes to give developers leverage without requiring them to give up creative control.
Backing the Next Generation of Games
As the global games market continues to grow, with rising competition across PC, console, and mobile platforms, Gambit Digital’s launch reflects the increasing importance of adaptable publishing models. The company’s leaders argue that traditional, one-size-fits-all publishing no longer suits the realities faced by modern studios.
Instead, they see opportunity in tailoring support around developers’ specific goals—whether that means quietly empowering studios behind the scenes or leading full-scale publishing campaigns.
Based in Montreal, Gambit Digital describes itself as “fast, fearless, and built for what’s next.” With a foundation of both creative and commercial expertise, the company is betting that its dual identity—developer-driven and publisher-powered—will help it stand out in a highly competitive field.
