E3 2018: Microsoft Creates a New Studio; Acquires Four Others

Microsoft had a big E3 show this year. They displayed trailers for over 50 titles while showing content for more than 18 exclusive titles. Amid all of this content, though, head of Xbox, Phil Spencer, took the stage to give anticipating fans a special message: Microsoft has acquired four new studios to work under them. A fifth one is in the process of being started up.

First is The Initiative, a Santa Monica-based studio which is in the process of getting off the ground. It’ll be headed by former Tomb Raider boss, Darrell Gallagher. It’s currently in the process of building a team of “world-class talent” to develop “groundbreaking new game experiences.”

Next, the developer behind the award-winning game, Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, Ninja Theory has decided to join Microsoft in their endeavor to create immersive, amazing titles. They released a video on YouTube explaining why they’ve moved onto bigger and better things with the huge company. See the full video below.

And furthermore… Microsoft has also acquired Undead Labs, the studio that brought players State of Decay; Forza Horizon’s Playground Games; and Compulsion Games, the developer behind the upcoming title, We Happy Few. Spencer confirmed that Playground Games is currently in the process of developing a new title for Microsoft. It’s rumored to be Fable 4. 

Spencer maintains that these developers will have “creative independence” in their future endeavors, but, now, they’ll have the resources necessary to create breathtaking, amazing games. This move from Microsoft shows their willingness to work with independent studios, like Ninja Theory, who make excellent titles.

Check back with The Nerd Stash for full coverage on E3 2018.