Crossy Road developer Hipster Whale is stepping into the publishing business, it has announced.

While continuing to develop its own projects, the Melbourne-based firm will be diversifying its portfolio for the first time to include games from external developers.

"We're often approached by other developers asking for help with their titles, and we haven't had the bandwidth to act,” said Hipster Whale director Andy Sum.

“Now, with our publishing initiative, we have a platform for showcasing some truly great games."

New challenges

To lead this new direction, Clara Reeves - former manager of games, digital content and animation at Film Victoria - has joined as president.

"Hipster Whale will continue to work on internal IP and with our amazing partners like Bandai Namco and Disney,” said Reeves.

“We'll now also now be looking to partner with great developers, helping them bring their creations to the widest audiences and find their own successes.

"Across the whole business we'll be working hard on creating and curating the very best game experiences, always looking for new ways to surprise and delight our players."

Details on how to apply are already available through the Hipster Whale website. It indicates that both free-to-play and premium titles will be considered, as well as games that have already been released.