17-Bit

17-Bit is an independent video game development studio based in Seattle, Washington. It was founded by Jake Kazdal, a developer with experience in larger game productions, and originally operated under the name Haunted Temple Studios before adopting the 17-Bit name. The studio’s identity centers on original, stylized digital games rather than a large publisher-style portfolio. Its known releases include Skulls of the Shogun, a turn-based strategy game, and GALAK-Z: The Dimensional, a space exploration and action game built around procedural systems. These titles were released for personal computers, consoles, and other digital platforms. Reliable information is insufficient to establish the studio’s current financial position, ownership structure, or latest production plans, so those details are not inferred here.

17-Bit began as Haunted Temple Studios, founded by Jake Kazdal to create original digital games with distinctive art direction and gameplay systems. The studio later adopted the 17-Bit name and established its early identity with Skulls of the Shogun. The game combined turn-based strategy, territory control, and a stylized historical-fantasy setting, and was released across several digital platforms. The studio later developed GALAK-Z: The Dimensional, combining space flight, shooting, exploration, and procedurally generated environments, further positioning 17-Bit within the independent console-game sector. Reliable public information about later releases, team size, ownership, and current operations is limited, so no additional unverified history is included.

1. 2015GALAK-Z: The Dimensional Released

   The studio released GALAK-Z: The Dimensional, focusing on space exploration and action shooting.

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2. 2012Skulls of the Shogun Released

   The studio released the turn-based strategy game Skulls of the Shogun, establishing brand recognition on digital game platforms.

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3. 2008Studio Founded

   Jake Kazdal founded Haunted Temple Studios, which later became 17-Bit.

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Independent game development, stylized original digital games, console and PC platforms

• Skulls of the ShogunTurn-based strategy video game2012

  A turn-based strategy game with a stylized Japanese-warring-states fantasy setting. Its gameplay centers on unit command, territorial control, and tactical positioning, making it one of 17-Bit's early signature original titles.

• GALAK-Z: The DimensionalSpace action shooting video game2015

  A space action game combining flight, shooting, exploration, and procedurally generated environments. It emphasizes physics-based piloting and dynamic combat and became a notable 17-Bit console-focused release.

1. 17-Bit official website
2. 17-Bit — Skulls of the Shogun
3. 17-Bit — GALAK-Z