Double Fine Releases 'Thank You Bus Driver' Months After Xbox Separation

Double Fine has quickly moved to operate as an independent studio again, following its split from Xbox this summer. The developer is set to release its unusual driving simulator, Thank You Bus Driver, in about two weeks.

Announced recently, Double Fine's first project after parting ways with Xbox is a black-and-white game described as a "chaotic bus driving game." Players will manage the day-to-day duties of a town's bus driver, aiming for minimal rule-breaking and maximum passenger satisfaction. The studio confirmed this weekend that it will be available on various PC platforms on October 14.

You can find Thank You Bus Driver on Steam, GOG, and Itch.io.

The game involves transporting passengers to their destinations within a time limit. However, this comedy simulation also incorporates elements reminiscent of Paper, Please. As the day progresses, players will enforce rules by physically interacting with passengers, using unusually long arms to slap them—a characteristic Double Fine twist.

This release also signifies Double Fine's first game since reclaiming its independence. Xbox's recent corporate changes led to the spin-off of five first-party studios, including Double Fine, with anticipated layoffs affecting approximately 3,200 staff by next summer. Double Fine itself reduced its workforce by a quarter as a consequence.

Double Fine is introducing Thank You Bus Driver under a new initiative, Double Fine Action Labs. This label is dedicated to "weird, little games" that can be developed and released more rapidly than usual. The studio's current Amnesia Fortnight Kickstarter campaign is also expected to lead to another Action Labs title.

Tim Schafer, the studio's founder and creator of many of its notable games, stated there was no animosity between Double Fine and Xbox. He expressed support for subscription services like Game Pass, noting their potential to encourage players to try unconventional games like those Double Fine produces. He hopes for the service's continued success.

When asked about the perceived instability in the gaming industry, Schafer expressed uncertainty, observing that despite active player bases and financial activity, significant job losses are occurring. He speculated that greed might be a contributing factor.