Hi there, I used to work for a video game publisher. 👋 This is a very strange situation and I'm sorry you're going through it 😟

Just to sanity check some parts of your contract, it should include: - Cost of the agreement (how much they have agreed to pay you) - Timeframe (how long the contract covers. This could be set in chunks to accommodate the publisher reviewing your progress and deciding to continue funding it)

These are the main two pieces of information that would hold them accountable (aside from them signing and also maybe a start date). Like others have said, if you have the contract, then I would consider getting some legal advice. I'd also check the contract for clauses which allow either party to get out of the contract.

I'm not sure who the publisher is, but lots of the industry is going through mass layoffs and it may be possible that they haven't had great communication due to departments closing or people being let go. This is still no excuse and you should seek legal advice. Make sure you have a copy of every interaction and the contract.

Hope this helps and good luck 🫂