In a significant move that promises to reshape the gaming landscape, Build A Rocket Boy has acquired PlayFusion for an undisclosed sum. This strategic partnership unites two innovative forces in the gaming industry, laying the groundwork for transformative projects and groundbreaking technologies.
Uniting Visionary Studios
PlayFusion, known for its cutting-edge transmedia entertainment solutions, will now lend its expertise to Build A Rocket Boy’s ambitious slate of AAA projects. These include the much-anticipated MindsEye, the open-world platform Everywhere, and the user-generated content hub Arcadia. This collaboration aims to push the boundaries of interactive entertainment.
Mark Gerhard, CEO and CTO of PlayFusion, will step into the role of co-CEO at Build A Rocket Boy alongside the studio’s founder and gaming legend Leslie Benzies. “We’ve always admired PlayFusion’s creativity and innovative approach to transmedia entertainment, and joining forces with them will ascend Build A Rocket Boy to our next level of excellence,” Benzies remarked.
Gerhard echoed the sentiment, expressing his enthusiasm for the merger: “It’s truly an honor and a privilege to join forces with Leslie and the legendary team at Build A Rocket Boy at such a formative time for the games industry. This next chapter of our combined studios will deliver on that promise as well as disrupt the industry by democratizing premium game development.”
A Shared Legacy of Innovation
PlayFusion’s core team, which has worked together for nearly two decades, brings a wealth of experience to the table. Gerhard emphasized their shared vision of creating a “new era of gaming,” one that prioritizes accessibility and creativity for both developers and players alike.
This acquisition follows a year of significant developments for Build A Rocket Boy. In early 2024, the studio raised $110 million in a Series D funding round led by RedBird Capital, with contributions from industry giants like NetEase Games and Galaxy Interactive. Despite a brief period of layoffs in February, the studio has demonstrated resilience and a commitment to its ambitious vision.
A New Horizon for Gaming
With this partnership, Build A Rocket Boy is poised to redefine the possibilities of gaming. By leveraging PlayFusion’s expertise in transmedia and Build A Rocket Boy’s innovative game development philosophy, the studio aims to create experiences that transcend traditional boundaries.
The acquisition sets the stage for an exciting chapter in gaming history, with players and creators eagerly anticipating the next steps from this dynamic collaboration.