Hidden Variable Initiates $1.2 Million Lawsuit Against Autumn Games Over Unpaid Fees

As of January 21, 2025, Hidden Variable Studios is no longer involved in the development of Skullgirls Mobile and 2nd Encore due to a contractual dispute with Autumn Games, the publisher of the game. The dispute has been formally filed with the Los Angeles County Superior Court, with Hidden Variable seeking $1,227,308.98 in unpaid payments and interest. According to Hidden Variable, Autumn Games has failed to make several payments, including a $131,500 payment due in November 2024 and subsequent payments, as well as $15,000 in expenses. Hidden Variable claims to have fulfilled its contractual obligations but Autumn Games has not. Despite the dispute, Hidden Variable has provided Autumn Games with necessary account login information to ensure continued community support for the game. The studio expressed pride in its 10-year involvement with the Skullgirls franchise, including the creation and support of Skullgirls Mobile, the introduction of new characters and platforms to Skullgirls 2nd Encore, and the organization of the Skullgirls Championship Series. However, the team will not comment further on the matter until the dispute is resolved. In response, Autumn Games acknowledged the concerns surrounding the recent announcements and expressed gratitude to the players for their support. The publisher confirmed that it is making changes and is committed to delivering on its promises to fans, including the launch of the Guilds feature later this year.