Indie game developer Rob Hale, also known as Squid in a Box, died of cancer earlier this month. Hale’s partner, CJ, revealed the news in an announcement on the Steam forums of Hale’s next game, Waves 2. Per Hale’s final wishes, CJ has made the developer’s games Waves and Waves 2 free to download on Steam.

“This was something Rob was considering anyway within the past two months as their health entered into more substantial difficulties,” CJ stated, “I hope this can be seen as a parting gift to all those out there that haven’t yet played either of these games.” 

Hale’s first project was Waves, and was released in 2011. It’s twin-stick shooter with a distinctive trance-beat and chiptune soundtrack. Waves was a standout release in those earlier days of the Steam indie scene, and remains well-worth returning to more than ten years later.

“Rob was very passionate about their work, and ever so dedicated, over the years we were together they were always dreaming big and trying so hard to create the best game they could possibly make,” they continued. “This did mean that sometimes Rob would shoot for the moon and miss, and it does mean that unfortunately, Waves 2 will definitely remain incomplete. But that doesn’t take away from my awe and the pride I always had in Rob; to see someone so dedicated to their craft.

“So I hope all of you out there, whoever you are and however Rob’s games have reached you, that you can at the very least hold a special place for the Waves games, and that they continue to bring you many more hours of chill, challenge, and possibly even frustration, but most of all I hope that you can continue to feel the passion and love that Rob poured into these games long after the pain of their passing begins to fade.”

A little piece of Rob Hale lives on in their creative work. Playing their games gives us a way to know and honor the light they held up for us to see. Rest in peace, Rob Hale, and thank you for being a part of it all.

-30-