Fireside Feelings
When The CoLab came to us in early 2025, it was evident from day one just how much they cared for and were enthused by the potential of the indie titles in their stable. As an emerging outfit, budgets were going to be tight, but that drive and passion for their work became the starting point of a new way of working, bespoke for indie development opportunities.
Eschewing the traditional invoice model, we agreed a new system that allowed US to deliver its gold standard collaboration and AAA testing knowledge to Fireside Feelings, and the many more to come.
Fireside was a unique proposition, a game centered not on competition, or challenge, but instead exploration of the self, and US were excited to help.
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Game
Fireside Feelings -
Location
Angoulême, France -
Release date
2025 -
Developer
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Publisher
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TESTED FOR :
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The Mission
In a market where quality can be critical to success, how do smaller developers ensure the highest possible standards?
The launch title of a new publisher needs to make a big splash, there’s no room for error when establishing a reputation.
A language driven title about sensitive issues requires not just accurate translation, but sympathetic and considerate wording as well, setting the tone for user generated content to follow.
The Solution
In partnership with The CoLab (https://www.thecolabgames.com/), on a bespoke indie funding model, Universally Speaking offers its full range of services to their published titles. AAA support, on an indie budget.
Active and open collaboration across all levels is enshrined in The CoLab’s unique approach to development, and pairs well with Universally Speaking’s open approach. Real time open conversations with no holds barred ensure responsiveness, understanding, and gets the right fix every time.
Offering not just bug reports, but guidance and expertise to new developers helps them reduce turnaround, focus on key areas, and provide a comprehensive and high-quality final delivery.
Agile and rapid response team provision, pivoting as required to meet changes in plans as launch day looms. Being able to change direction on demand allows us to maximise available budget, and apply testing and translation focus where its needed most, from one moment to the next.
Services we provided
- Localisation
- Functional QA
Results That Made a Difference
A strong rapport between developer and outsource tester, catching critical bugs early, and making quality of life improvements to the title ahead of release.
A fantastic 96% Positive review score on Steam, reflecting the effort and polish that’s gone into Fireside Feelings.
A smooth and successful launch, paving the way for the next big hit in The CoLab catalogue.
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bugs prevented
ensuring a smooth launch for all
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Positive reviews on Steam
a warm reception for a warm hearted game
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Estimated "US Factor"
Client estimated increase in games average review score as a result of US contribution.
Explore QA Success Stories
We don’t just find bugs; we eliminate risks. From compatibility testing to complex regression, our teams ensure your title is technically flawless across every platform before it reaches the player.
Fireside Feelings
For Indie titles, budgets are often small and bang for buck is king, so how did Universally Speaking partner with The CoLab to bring AAA quality on an Indie budget for their debut title, Fireside Feelings?
Fluent in Horror
Oooh, that was creepy. But is it creepy in Swedish? How about Japanese? When the title is a narrative horror game, getting the tone wrong breaks immersion and can turn a thriller into a farce.
Remastering a AAA Classic
When the title is a remake of a much acclaimed AAA classic, how do you do justice to the source material moving into new languages? Easy, you call US.
Interested in working with US?
We’re here to help you deliver world-class testing and localisation support. Let’s talk about how we can work together.
what our clients have to say
We would definitely recommend their services. What impresses me most is their flexibility and dedication to customer service. US has the ability to ramp up and down very quickly to meet changing project needs and deadlines.
Producer - Capcom
US has supported our testing requirements for our video streaming applications. US’ support is pivotal to reaching our targets and achieving submission deadlines. They are reactive and flexible to our needs allowing us to have the required support organised at short notice.
QA Manager - Amazon
Quick turnarounds, approachable, reliable, friendly and professional are just a few terms that I would associate with US. Turnaround times are all quick and of high quality. I would recommend US and I look forward to continually working with them on future projects.
Producer - 505
We’ve partnered with US for many years on multiple projects. No job is too big or too small for the team and they will always work hard to hit tight deadlines whilst still achieving the very highest quality standards.
Commercial Director - Ninja Theory
A big thank you to your entire team for all your invaluable work, and let’s continue making cool things together!
Outsourcing Manager - Remedy
US have never failed to provide a timely, friendly and high quality service. We are very happy to continue our relationship with them, and would recommend them to anyone looking for bespoke and flexible translation or QA work, with a smile.
Producer - Curve Digital
I have always been impressed with the speed and efficiency provided by US, no matter how tight the deadline, the translations are always high quality. US are ready and willing to help with any last minute changes or additions, no hassles and no fuss, professional and accommodating.
Localisation Co-Ordinator - Codemasters
