Salty Games, a Darwin-based game development company, is raising the stakes in the gaming industry with their inaugural title, Pasture: The Livestock Simulator. Founded in July 2022 by business enthusiasts Chas (CJ) Cole and Nathan Groves, Salty Games is on a mission to establish a thriving gaming industry in the Northern Territory.
Pasture offers players an immersive experience into the challenging and rewarding life of an NT pastoralist. Players navigate the complexities of weather, markets, and mother nature to build a successful cattle empire. The game emphasises vigilant property stewardship, where clever management leads to a flourishing herd, sound infrastructure, and a blossoming bank account. By blending traditional methods with innovative strategies, Pasture allows players to experience the highs and lows of pastoral life, making it a unique addition to the simulation genre.
The support of the Northern Territory Government through the Business Innovation Program (BIP) 2.0 has been instrumental in Salty Games' journey. Reflecting on the program's impact, Nathan said, "BIP 2.0 has been a game-changer for Salty Games. It provided us with the resources and guidance to refine our business model and secure the investment we needed to grow."
In the early stages of Salty Games, the backing from BIP 2.0 gave Chas and Nathan the spark of confidence they needed to believe that Pasture was destined for success. As Chas put it, "The support we received showed us that others believed in our vision, and that validation fuelled our determination to turn Salty Games into a reality." This early vote of confidence proved critical as they laid the foundation for what would become a ground-breaking game.
Beyond funding, the program opened doors to invaluable connections and expertise. Chas emphasised, "It’s not every day that startups in regional areas get access to this level of support, and we’ve made the most of it."
Encouraging other startups to consider applying, Nathan noted, "If you're a startup in the Northern Territory with a big idea, I can’t recommend this program enough. It’s not just about funding; it’s about gaining access to a network of experts and opportunities that help you take your vision to the next level."
As a result of this support, Salty Games has not only accelerated the development of Pasture but also contributed to establishing the Northern Territory as an emerging hub for innovation and creativity. "For us, the program wasn’t just about financial support," Chas explained. "It helped us build a sustainable framework to grow our company and attract additional investors. It’s been invaluable in putting Darwin on the map as a hub for game development."
With a clear vision and the right support, Salty Games is poised to bring global attention to the Northern Territory’s potential as a centre for gaming and innovation.
To find out more, go to the Salty Games website.
