Umbrella, a prominent Australian film distributor, has branched out into the world of video games, launching Umbrella Gaming, a label aimed at bringing independent games to market.
Umbrella Gaming’s first signed title is Pro Jank Footy, a comedic arcade take on Australian Rules Football that won best in show at SAGE 2025 in February. Made by Powerbomb Games, a collaboration between comedy filmmakers David Ashby and Dario Russo — alongside Tyler Roach, Cam Rogers, and the vocal talents of Aunty Donna’s Broden Kelly — it seems like a logical fit.
“When we set out to make Pro Jank Footy, we decided on two things,” Ashby said. “One, make a fun and chaotic retro throwback of Australian Rules Football. And two, keep the production an Australian story.”
Having played an early build of Pro Jank Footy, I can certainly vouch for its chaotic and authentically Australian flavour. Akin to the classic NBA Jam games, traditional rules go out the window in favour of ridiculous power-ups, like removing players’ arms or surrounding the entire oval with goalposts. Check out the trailer — it immediately gives you the delightfully silly vibe of the game.
Set to demo publicly at PAX Aus and SXSW Sydney later this year, Pro Jank Footy will release in 2026 on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.
Umbrella aims to bring film distribution to gaming
From its film distribution background, Umbrella wants its new gaming division to be a one-stop shop for all things relating to releasing a game. Umbrella Gaming will work on PR, marketing, and liaise with platform holders on behalf of developers.
“Just as Umbrella has championed independent film, we’re now bringing that same passion and experience to the world of indie games – backing distinctive voices, supporting end-to-end releases, and helping local stories reach global audiences,” said Ari Harrison, Umbrella’s General Manager.
There will also be some cross-pollination along the way between the film and video game industries. Umbrella is handling the local distribution of Exit 8 and Return to Silent Hill, films based on video games.
In a year ravaged by layoffs and limited funding opportunities for game developers, it’s refreshing to see some good news for the local industry. Umbrella played a part in bringing the critically acclaimed Australian horror film The Babadook to the world, so fingers crossed it can do the same for local video games.
The post Pro Jank Footy targets 2026 with new Umbrella Gaming label appeared first on GadgetGuy.
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