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Highlights
- Keywords Studios strengthens its position in game development with a key acquisition.
- Certain Affinity known for contributions to major gaming franchises like Halo and Call of Duty.
- Deal enhances Keywords' presence in the US and Canada.
Keywords Studios PLC has announced an agreement to acquire Certain Affinity, a renowned US-based game development studio. Certain Affinity is best known for its role in co-developing some of the most successful AAA multiplayer games in the industry. This acquisition is part of Keywords' strategy to bolster its "Create" division and further establish itself in key markets like the US and Canada.
Certain Affinity, founded in 2006, has a rich history of contributing to high-profile game franchises, including Halo, Call of Duty, Hogwarts Legacy, and DOOM. Its expertise spans various development services such as end-to-end game design, multiplayer design, user experience, and even audio and cinematics. This wide range of capabilities has earned it a significant role in the industry, making the acquisition an important move for Keywords Studios.
One of the notable projects Certain Affinity is currently working on is EXODUS from Archetype Entertainment, a division of Wizards of the Coast. This demonstrates the studio's ongoing involvement in top-tier game development, adding to the appeal of the acquisition for Keywords Studios. By integrating Certain Affinity’s resources, Keywords will strengthen its foothold in the competitive action game genre.
The Texas-based game studio operates with over 180 employees spread across its offices in Austin, Texas, and Toronto, Ontario. With this acquisition, Keywords gains access to a talented team with proven expertise in some of the most popular game franchises in the world. Not only does this enhance Keywords' capacity to handle large-scale projects, but it also significantly expands its geographical presence in North America.
Max Hoberman, founder and CEO of Certain Affinity, along with President Paul Sams, will continue to lead the company after the acquisition. This leadership continuity is expected to ensure a smooth integration of Certain Affinity into the Keywords Group, maintaining the studio's strong reputation and operational stability.
The financial details of the deal involve both upfront payments and an earn-out structure, which will be funded from Keywords' existing revolving credit facility. Keywords CEO Bertrand Bodson expressed his enthusiasm for the acquisition, stating that Certain Affinity brings valuable experience and knowledge to Keywords' growing portfolio.
This acquisition is set to enhance Keywords Studios' ability to serve clients in the action game genre and solidify its presence in North America, ensuring it remains a competitive force in the rapidly evolving gaming industry.
