Josef Fares is a name that resonates with both film and gaming enthusiasts. As a Swedish Assyrian filmmaker turned game developer, he has made a remarkable impact on interactive storytelling. His transition from directing hit Swedish films to pioneering cooperative gaming experiences has earned him recognition as one of the most innovative voices in the industry. With critically acclaimed titles like Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons, A Way Out, and It Takes Two, Fares has solidified his reputation for pushing the boundaries of gaming narratives. But beyond his artistic achievements, many are curious about his financial success. What is Josef Fares’ net worth in 2025? How did he amass his wealth? Let’s dive into his journey, from his early life to his thriving career in game development.
Early Life and Immigration
Josef Fares was born in Beirut, Lebanon, in 1977, during a period of civil unrest. At the age of 10, his family fled the war and immigrated to Örebro, Sweden, seeking safety and a better future. Growing up as an immigrant in Sweden, Fares developed a deep appreciation for storytelling, which later became the foundation of his success in both film and video games.
His unique cultural background, combined with the challenges of displacement and adaptation, influenced the themes of family, identity, and emotional connections that appear throughout his work. The struggles of his early life provided him with the perspective and resilience necessary to carve a niche for himself in the entertainment industry.
Film Career and Early Success
Before stepping into game development, Fares built a strong reputation in Swedish cinema. He directed his first feature film, Jalla! Jalla! (2000), which became a commercial and critical success. The film, a romantic comedy dealing with cultural identity, resonated with Swedish audiences and showcased his knack for blending humor with heartfelt storytelling.
He followed up with other successful films, including Kopps (2003), an action-comedy, and Leo (2007), which explored darker, more dramatic themes. His films often tackled issues of cultural clash, family dynamics, and personal struggles—elements that later found their way into his video games.
Despite his success in filmmaking, Fares sought new creative challenges. He became increasingly drawn to video games as a storytelling medium, leading to a career-defining pivot.
Transition to Game Development
In 2013, Fares made an unexpected move into game development, partnering with Starbreeze Studios to create Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons. The game introduced an innovative control scheme that required players to control two brothers simultaneously using different sides of the controller. The result was an emotionally gripping experience that won numerous awards for storytelling and game design.
The success of Brothers convinced Fares that gaming offered unparalleled storytelling potential. This realization led him to establish Hazelight Studios in 2014, a company dedicated to crafting cooperative gaming experiences.
Hazelight Studios and Breakthrough Games
Fares and Hazelight Studios gained worldwide recognition with the release of A Way Out (2018). Unlike traditional single-player games, A Way Out was designed exclusively for two players, emphasizing collaboration and synchronized gameplay. The game’s unique approach and cinematic presentation were widely praised, reinforcing Fares’ reputation as an industry innovator.
His biggest success, however, came with It Takes Two (2021), a co-op action-adventure platformer about a troubled married couple magically transformed into dolls. The game was lauded for its imaginative gameplay mechanics, emotional depth, and engaging cooperative play. It went on to win Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2021, a massive achievement for a fully cooperative title.
Hazelight Studios’ projects have demonstrated Fares’ unwavering belief in gaming as a collaborative storytelling medium, setting him apart from conventional game designers.
Josef Fares’ Net Worth in 2025
As of 2025, Josef Fares’ estimated net worth is $20 million. His wealth comes primarily from his success in both the film and gaming industries. The massive commercial success of It Takes Two significantly boosted Hazelight Studios’ revenue, further elevating his financial standing.
Unlike many industry leaders who chase microtransactions and multiplayer monetization models, Fares has built his wealth through full-game sales and studio partnerships. His ability to balance artistic integrity with commercial success has made him a standout figure in gaming.
Family and Personal Life
Josef Fares is the brother of actor Fares Fares, who has had a successful acting career in both Sweden and Hollywood. The brothers have frequently collaborated, with Fares Fares appearing in several of Josef’s films.
Despite his high-profile career, Josef Fares maintains a relatively private personal life. He is known for his passionate and outspoken nature, particularly regarding his work and the gaming industry. His memorable “F* the Oscars!”** moment at The Game Awards 2017 solidified his reputation as an unfiltered, energetic personality who is not afraid to speak his mind.
Industry Influence and Legacy
Josef Fares’ contributions to gaming go beyond his own projects. His insistence on pushing interactive storytelling boundaries has inspired a new generation of developers to experiment with narrative-driven gameplay. He has become an advocate for games as an artistic medium, challenging industry norms and conventional game design principles.
His focus on cooperative experiences has also shifted the landscape of multiplayer gaming. In an era dominated by competitive online games, Fares has proven that cooperative storytelling can be just as engaging and commercially viable.
What’s Next for Josef Fares?
Looking ahead, Hazelight Studios is working on its next major project, with Fares promising another innovative gaming experience. While details remain scarce, fans and critics alike anticipate another emotionally rich, cooperative-driven adventure that continues his legacy of unique storytelling.
Given his track record, whatever Fares and his team create next is sure to push the boundaries of gaming once again.
Final Thoughts
Josef Fares’ journey from Lebanese refugee to award-winning filmmaker and game developer is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and passion for storytelling. With an estimated net worth of $20 million in 2025, he stands as a powerful force in both the film and gaming industries. His bold personality, innovative game design, and dedication to cooperative storytelling have left a lasting mark on interactive entertainment.