Publisher EA has completed its acquisition of independent studio Respawn Entertainment, the developers behind the Titanfall series. In the publisher’s official website, EA announced that it has “completed the acquisition of Respawn on the terms previously disclosed.” This means that EA has successfully acquired the studio with its three-pronged $455 million deal: $151 million upfront payment in cash, $164 million in long-term equity via restricted stock units, and up to $140 million “contingent upon achievement of certain performance milestones.” While EA’s acquisition of Respawn potentially secures a sequel to Titanfall 2, fans and media men felt concerned for the studio’s fate as the publisher has shuttered numerous EA subsidiaries in the past, with Dead Space developers Visceral Games being the most recent victim. Add EA’s numerous controversies on handling microtransactions in several games, such as Star Wars: Battlefront II and UFC 3, you can see why fans are concerned. Nonetheless, Respawn Entertainment CEO Vince Zampella assured gamers back in Nov. 9 that the studio’s acquisition is a “great next step” for EA, Respawn itself, and all gamers. “We felt that now was the time to join an industry leader that brings the resources we need for long term success, while still keeping our culture and creative freedom,” said Zampella. “EA has been a great partner over the years with Titanfall and Titanfall 2, and we’re excited to combine our strengths.” Respawn Entertainment was founded by two key developers from Infinity Ward, the team that created the acclaimed Call of Duty: Modern Warfare series. After Respawn was formed, the studio sought funding for their first game through EA’s EA Partners Program, enabling the studio to retain intellectual property rights for Titanfall. At present, Respawn’s pipeline of upcoming games include a new Titanfall, an untitled Star Wars, and an Oculus Rift VR title.
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Published: Dec 3, 2017 01:58 pm