This is the first post in a new series of profiles of GameStreamer publishers and independent developers.

Modestly sized independent developer FRONTLINE Studios derived its name from the company’s commitment to pushing the technology and design to the limit. Established in 1998, the company develops games for next-generation entertainment devices (Nintendo Wii, PS3, XB360, PC and Mac), as well as handhelds (DS, PSP, and iPhone). FRONTLINE Studios' technology consists of dozens of platform-independent components integrated into scalable and flexible object-oriented architecture. NetVigil software keeps the company's projects efficient and provides real-time reporting and monitoring.

Company offices are in Florida and California, and the main studio is located in Poland (Bydgoszcz). FRONTLINE games include Gene Labs and Christmas Chicken and upcoming titles Life Savers and Mech Wars.

To learn more about FRONTLINE Studios, we asked CEO Marcin Michel a few questions about his company and his personal experiences as a gamer.

GameStreamer: How did FRONTLINE get its name?

Marcin Michel: Since the very beginning we have had a mission to become a prestigious, well recognizable and creative game developer, so one day we could get a chance to get on the front line of the videogame industry. At FRONTLINE we always try to stay ahead with the proprietary technology and development tools, always trying to deliver top-of-the-line, quality products. That is, we thought FRONTLINE Studios is a great name that reflects our business strategy.

GS: What was the first game FRONTLINE self-published?

MM: The first self-published title is Gene Labs. Due to limited internal funds, we have selected this simple and fun arcade game, so we could afford to bring this game to many platforms simultaneously and at low cost. In the past we have delivered over 30 titles on many different platforms developed for retail game publishers, and currently we do have 12 titles that we are going to self-publish within a few upcoming months.

GS: Can you give us a sneak peek of some of your upcoming titles?

MM: Sure. Valet Maniacs (screenshot below) is an arcade-strategy game where you are a valet parking supervisor. Galactic Siege puts you in the middle of a space-shooting adventure, and Red Prison gives hidden object games a new twist. If you love to fish, Salt Life: Ocean Hunter offers a first-person fishing experience.   

GS: What was the first video game you ever played?

MM: I can't really remember what was the very first game I've played. There was a bunch of cool games I've played on my first fun machine - Commodore 64. I had been basically buying all games I could get in Poland those days, and I think I've collected at least 30 best games on my Commodore.

GS: What is your favorite aspect of working at FRONTLINE?

MM: There are many aspects for sure, including the possibility to be a part of creative process, however I must say that our company's culture and its people are the most important aspects that keep me going.

GS: If you could be any game character, who would you be and why?

MM: One of my favorite is definitely Drake from Uncharted, as I would love to try my luck in treasure hunting one day!

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