38 Studios Acquires Big Huge Games News

The fate of Big Huge Games was today sealed with confirmation that 38 Studios has acquired the development studio from THQ.

Established by former Boston Red Sox pitcher Curt Shilling, 38 Studios specialises in entertainment and original IP creation.  Today’s acquisition marks a significant step for the company, making note that its strategy revolves around the ongoing development of an original MMO IP codenamed Copernicus.

The acquisition includes all of Big Huge Games’ IP, tools, technology, assets, and work-in-progress, and confirms that the studio is still at work on an untitled RPG for the Xbox 360, PlayStation3, and PC headed by Ken Rolston – co-creator of Bethesda’s Morrowind and Oblivion.

"The acquisition of Big Huge Games will be tremendously beneficial to the growth, market position, financial stability, and long-term success of 38 Studios," said Brett Close, CEO and President, 38 Studios. "BHG's cross-platform RTS/RPG engine will accelerate the realization of our Online Entertainment Experience™ for the Copernicus IP. The acquisition enables us to develop and deliver top-quality games in multiple genres that are based in a shared world, ultimately maximizing the value of our Copernicus MMOG and the intellectual property as a whole."

"Big Huge Games and 38 Studios share a common vision - to deliver the most engaging, compelling, original experiences possible," said Tim Train, CEO of Big Huge Games. "Joining the 38 Studios family allows us to continue translating our passions into great games."

"It's always about team," said 38 Studios Founder and Chairman Curt Schilling. "The highly regarded developers at BHG, including leading role-playing and real-time strategy design teams led by Ken Rolston, are a perfect complement to 38 Studios' staggering array of talent. Big Huge Games is a phenomenal team and, culturally, a natural fit."