On Friday, Keywords Studios, a provider of solutions to the video game and entertainment industries, announced its acquisition of Certain Affinity, a prominent US-based game development studio known for its co-development services on AAA multiplayer titles. This move aims to enhance Keywords Studios' Create division and expand its presence in North America.
Founded in 2006, Certain Affinity has earned a reputation for its work on major franchises such as Halo, Call of Duty, and recent projects like Hogwarts Legacy and DOOM. The studio, with a team of over 180 across offices in Austin, Texas, and Toronto, Ontario, is currently involved with several announced and unannounced projects, including the highly anticipated EXODUS from Archetype Entertainment.
The acquisition terms include an upfront cash payment and earn-out components, adhering to Keywords Studios' targeted valuation range. The initial payment will be sourced from the Group's existing revolving credit facility, and the deal is subject to standard closing conditions.
Keywords CEO Bertrand Bodson expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition: "We are thrilled to welcome Certain Affinity to the Keywords Group. They bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and expertise to our Create division, complementing our existing skills and expanding our presence notably in the US and Canada."
Max Hoberman, Certain Affinity's Founder and CEO, and his management team will continue to lead the studio post-acquisition. Hoberman remarked on the partnership's potential, highlighting the stability and growth opportunities it presents: "The respect for our talent and culture that Keywords has shown, along with a willingness to invest in our growth, is unparalleled."
The transaction was facilitated by Juno Capital Partners, representing Certain Affinity. This acquisition is expected to contribute to the strategic growth of Keywords Studios by bolstering its development capabilities and reinforcing its market position in North America.
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