Dear fans of Countryballs: The Heist,

The release of Countryballs: The Heist has been postponed to the third quarter of 2026.\nInstead of quietly changing the release date on Steam, I want to personally explain whats behind this decision and give you an up-to-date peek behind the scenes.

From an idea to the biggest project of my life

When PWA first approached me with the idea of collaborating, my answer was clear: Heck yes! We wanted to create a funny Countryball game that would reflect your beloved Countryball universe as faithfully as possible, while also honoring PWAs legendary Heist series on YouTube.

What began as chats on Discord turned into sketches. From sketches came a prototype, and from the prototype emerged the vision of a serious video game:\nA strategic stealth game with a gripping storyline, sprinkled with PWAs trademark humor, representing ALL countries not only through their flags but also via cultural references in gameplay and in countless skins. Plus, a fully-featured editor that lets you share your own Countryball stories with friends all around the world in true meme spirit.

And honestly, thats just a fraction of whats currently in the works.

Independent, without a AAA budget but with full commitment

While PWA tirelessly produces content for you on his YouTube channel and helps grow our community, Ive taken on the role of developer and game designer.

Tackling a project like Countryballs: The Heist solo and without major financial backing is, to put it mildly, ambitious. But in 2023, I decided to take the leap: quit my job, found pterix GmbH, and work full-time on Countryballs: The Heist.

To put every cent into the project, Ive gone without a salary from day one, living off side projects and savings. Moving back to my parents place in the countryside is probably one of the less cool moves Ive made recently...

Honestly, this game has long since become more than just my new job. Its become a part of me.

Why we need more time

Admittedly, its partly the little details that are stretching out the development. But Im convinced those exact details will make Countryballs: The Heist a unique experience. On the other hand, a one-person development is incredibly hard to plan... unexpected things happen during development and in life.

Most importantly, we dont want to hand you a half-baked game despite all the challenges.\nWere taking the time to make Countryballs: The Heist a game that both we and you can be proud of on release day. Whether GTA 6 will release before or after The Heist? Phew... only the Countryball gods or Rockstar know that...

How you can help now

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your support, your trust and especially for wishlisting Countryballs: The Heist on Steam.\nSince were independent, every wishlist truly counts. Its the only way we have a real chance of being noticed on Steam.

So heres our humble request:\nPlease share Countryballs: The Heist with your friends and on social media.

Thank you!\nNow Im grabbing a tea and getting back to coding.

Yours,\nmnenad - the developer