2022 is continuing fast and strong with the acquisition trend among big gaming companies. This time we are seeing Square Enix under the spotlight, but not in the purchasing side. Embracer Group announced a deal to purchase a number of storied studios and properties from Square Enix. They already have the serious names like Gearbox and THQ Nordic.
It should be noted that the purchase is not final yet, but it is currently just an agreement to acquire the mentioned studios and properties. The acquisition should follow the final signing which is expected later in 2022. The deal is around $300M. For this amount, Embracer Group is going to get:
- The studios Crystal Dynamics, Eidos Montreal and Square Enix Montreal (the latter of which will presumably be in for a name change), numbering around 1100 employees worldwide.
- The “catalogue of IPs” owned and/or worked on by those studios, including Deus Ex, Tomb Raider, Thief, Legacy of Kain and “the continued sales and operations of the studios’ more than 50 back-catalogue games”. Also of interest: “Crystal Dynamics is actively working on several AAA projects, including the next mainline Tomb Raider game that will deliver next-generation storytelling and gameplay experiences.”
First question that comes to mind is about the relevant games, of course. People are wondering about the future of the games they love. There is a press release by Embracer Group to explain the matter.
“The acquisition brings a compelling pipeline of new installments from beloved franchises and original IPs, including a new Tomb Raider game. The acquisition builds on Embracer’s mission of creating a leading independent global gaming and entertainment ecosystem. Embracer has been particularly impressed by the studios’ rich portfolio of original IP, housing brands with proven global potential such as Tomb Raider and Deus Ex, as well as demonstrating the ability to create AAA games with large and growing fan bases. There are compelling opportunities to organically grow the studios to maximize their commercial opportunities.”
It is a bit vague, yet not hopeless to be fair. While 2022 may be a bit quiet on their side, 2023 could bring much better news once the changes are all settled.
