Embracer Group-owned Studio Piranha Bytes Hopes To Avoid Potential Studio Closure

German game developing studio Piranha Bytes, known for their RPGs GOTHIC, Risen, and the Elex series has been the subject of rumors in recent weeks regarding either a possible buyout or total closure by their parent company Embracer Group. This report comes courtesy of Game Informer, who reached out to the studio about their situation. CEO of the Essen based development team Michael Ruve responded to the matter, stating not to write them off just yet:

"Dear fans, yes, it's true. We, Piranha Bytes, are in a difficult situation. There are a lot of news about us circulating right now and this is our answer: Don't write us off yet! We [will] do everything to continue creating worlds in which you can lose yourself. This is what our hearts have always beaten for. We are convinced that we will succeed. We are creative minds and there's no lack of ideas! We stick together, no matter what.

"Now, we are focusing on this goal with all our strength and do whatever it takes to find a partner for this project. As soon as there [is] any news, we will share them with you. Thank you very much for your continuous support!"

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— Piranha Bytes (@Piranha_Bytes) January 22, 2024

Syncing up with reports from sources at RPG Site, the studio was intended to be sold off back in November. Through THQ Nordic, a part of Embracer Group's publishing wing, landed a deal that will give Piranha Bytes more time to find a suitable buyer or publisher. A more prudent road for the development staff to not be completely dissolved, as their works will continue in the hands of a more considerate entertainment company.

In recent months, Embracer Group has been on quite the spree, shutting down long-time veteran studios like Volition (Red Faction, Saints Row), Free Radical Design (Timesplitters), and have expressed interest in selling off Borderlands developer Gearbox. These moves are an effort on the media holdings group to maintain finances.

SOURCES: Game Informer, RPG Site