Double Fine to release first independent game on October 14

Double Fine, the developer behind Psychonauts and Brutal Legend, has announced that its first release as an independent studio, ‘Thank You Bus Driver’, will launch on October 14 for PC. The game is a black-and-white, comedic bus simulation available on Steam, GOG, and Itch.io.

In the game, players must transport passengers to their destinations within time limits while attempting to follow traffic rules. The title also features surreal elements where players must manage passenger behavior using unconventional methods. This project marks the debut of the studio’s new label, Double Fine Action Labs, which aims to publish smaller, experimental games.

This release follows Double Fine’s separation from Xbox during a broader restructuring at Microsoft. While the studio had to reduce its workforce by approximately one-quarter to maintain sustainability following the split, studio head Tim Schafer stated there is no ill will toward Microsoft and noted that the studio continues to support Game Pass.