Embracer Faces Potential Split as Gearbox and Star Wars KOTOR Remake Companies Consider Exiting - Latest Updates
Amid ongoing asset sales, Embracer Group's future hangs in the balance as reports suggest Gearbox and Star Wars KOTOR Remake companies may part ways, impacting the gaming industry landscape.
Saber Interactive, known for the remake of Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, is set to separate from Embracer Group. Gearbox, the developer of Borderlands, is also reportedly in the process of being sold.
According to Bloomberg, Saber Interactive is on track to become a privately owned company boasting a team of approximately 3,500 developers. Embracer Group is said to be looking to sell the studio in a deal that could reach up to $500 million.
Reportedly, Saber Interactive is still in the process of developing the Star Wars game remake, previously managed by Aspyr Media. Additionally, there were intentions to sell Saints Row developer Volition, but the deal fell through before the studio closed.
According to Kotaku, Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford conducted a town hall meeting to inform the company's approximately 1,300 employees about the impending sale. The deal is said to be in its final stages, with rumors circulating since September when marketing materials were already prepared for potential buyers, particularly from international gaming groups.
Earlier this month, Embracer Group announced that it is currently in the process of divesting some of its assets, with Saber Interactive and Gearbox being potential candidates.
Embracer Group has been carrying out significant layoffs and studio closures following the collapse of a reported $2 billion investment from a Saudi-backed fund. Among the affected studios is the recently resurrected Free Radical Design.
Our Website reached out to Saber Interactive but it declined to comment.
Editor's P/S:
The news of Saber Interactive and Gearbox's potential separation from Embracer Group raises concerns about the stability of the gaming industry. Embracer Group's recent divestments and layoffs indicate financial struggles, which may impact the development and support of beloved franchises like Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic and Borderlands. The departure of talented developers from these studios could also lead to a loss of creative vision and expertise.
It is important to note that Saber Interactive is reportedly still working on the Star Wars remake, offering a glimmer of hope for fans. However, the uncertainty surrounding the studio's future ownership and the impact it could have on the game's development timeline and quality remains a cause for concern. It is crucial for Embracer Group to ensure a smooth transition and provide the necessary support to ensure the success of its remaining studios and protect the legacy of its iconic games.
