Saskatoon Roommates Achieve Success with Self-Created Video Game

Two roommates from Saskatoon have found success in the gaming world after developing a role-playing game (RPG) in their living room. John Pywell, the programmer and graphic designer, began working on Fountains in 2019, drawing inspiration from popular games like Dark Souls and Hollow Knight. In 2022, he was joined by Eric Ramirez-Erosa, who contributed to the storyline of this ruined-kingdom narrative. With music composed by Travis Moberg based in the United States, Fountains has sold over 8,000 units since its December 2024 release and received largely positive reviews. The game's appeal spans internationally, notably reaching players in Japan.

The Journey of Two Friends Turning Passion into Profession

In the vibrant city of Saskatoon, two childhood friends turned housemates embarked on an ambitious project that would bring them unexpected acclaim. John Pywell, at the age of 24, initiated the development of Fountains, an RPG set in a war-torn fantasy realm. Inspired by classic titles, he took charge of both programming and designing visuals. His friend and roommate, Eric Ramirez-Erosa, also 24, brought his storytelling skills to life when he joined the project in 2022 while studying at the University of Saskatchewan. Together, they crafted a tale centered around a crumbling kingdom following the discovery of the mythical fountain of youth, which sparked global conflict.

Their creative process unfolded amidst sketches and notes scribbled on a cluttered whiteboard in their shared home. As Ramirez-Erosa described it, ideas were exchanged freely; if Pywell approved, they moved forward, otherwise modifications were made. This collaborative effort culminated in a game that resonated globally, selling more than 8,000 copies and receiving numerous favorable reviews on platforms like Steam.

With support extended across eight languages, including Japanese, Fountains gained traction among gamers worldwide, particularly surprising its creators with significant interest from Japan. Social media played a pivotal role in amplifying the game’s visibility, with one video clip garnering nearly a million views on YouTube Shorts.

From their newfound success, Pywell purchased his first car, symbolizing personal achievement, while Ramirez-Erosa utilized earnings to manage student loans and rent payments. Looking ahead, the duo plans to expand the game further and adapt it for consoles, beginning with the Nintendo Switch.

As journalists observing their journey, we find inspiration in how these young creators transformed a passion project into a thriving venture. Their story underscores the importance of collaboration, perseverance, and leveraging technology to reach a global audience. It serves as a reminder that creativity paired with hard work can lead to extraordinary outcomes, even starting from humble beginnings in a living room in Saskatoon.