Territory start-up lands 1.5m backing for video game
A video game built and set in Australia’s Northern Territory has been bolstered with $1.5 million in funding.
Territory start-up, Salty Games, co-founded by Darwin locals Nathan Groves and Chas (CJ) Cole, developed Pasture: The Livestock Simulator, an action-packed farming simulation experience on a Territory cattle station that brings the rugged landscape and nature to life.
Salty Games, which launched Pasture as a demo version in December 2023, has now received $1.5 million in seed-stage funding delivered by the Paspalis Co-Investment Fund – which is jointly supported by the Northern Territory’s Local Jobs Fund and Paspalis.
Just like on a real Northern Territory cattle station, Pasture takes players on an unforgettable journey across iconic landscapes. Users can muster livestock using horses, motorbikes, or helicopters, and can even get behind the wheel of an iconic bull-catcher, to arm the biggest of the herd.
A unique feature of Pasture is its carefully curated herding algorithm, which sees every cow and bull behave differently, adding a new depth to traditional farming games.
The simulation also allows players the ability to build up their cattle empire with infrastructure, livestock breeding and other sustainable farming practices.
Salty Games Creative Director Nathan Groves said with Pasture, they wanted to create something that truly reflects the spirit and challenges of life in the Northern Territory.
“This game is not just about farming – it’s about our community, sustainability and the beauty of our home.”
The investment in Salty Games will see the company bring on three new full-time employees, and it will also support the final stages of development and prepare Pasture for its anticipated launch on Steam next year, one of the largest digital distribution platforms for PC games.
NT Local Jobs Fund Senior Director Stuart Palmer said the Paspalis Co-Investment Fund was all about leveraging local businesses and bringing innovative ideas to life.
“It supports local industry by generating new investment opportunities that create more skilled jobs in the Territory.
“We look forward to continuing to support Salty Games as they work towards the release of Pasture on Steam.”
The Paspalis Co-Investment Fund is available to companies that have a distinct presence in the Territory and are looking to grow, expand and create new jobs.
It offers up to $5 million in funding in an aim to boost jobs, diversify the Territory economy, and strengthen local skillsets.
For more information on the Paspalis Co-Investment Fund on the Invest NT website.