Microsoft and Digital Anvil have worked closely since 1997 to develop groundbreaking games for the PC platform. Following the planned acquisition, Digital Anvil will continue to create titles from its Austin headquarters as part of Microsoft’s growing pool of in-house development talent.
The acquisition of Digital Anvil will strengthen our commitment to producing top-quality PC and Xbox titles, said Ed Fries, vice president of games publishing at Microsoft. ‘FreeLancer’ is a true expression of Digital Anvil’s innovative spirit. By combining our internal resources with the Digital Anvil team’s development talent, we will ensure the realization of their creative visions
In a related announcement, Chris Roberts, founder and CEO of Digital Anvil, said he would be departing the company to pursue other creative endeavors. Roberts will, however, continue to work with Digital Anvil through the completion of FreeLancer. Serving as creative consultant, he will continue to craft the game’s intricate storyline and serve as an adviser to the development team.
This acquisition is a positive growth opportunity for Digital Anvil, Roberts added in a press statement. Under the Microsoft umbrella, ‘FreeLancer’ and other games will be supported by a strong infrastructure and realized in the spirit in which they were conceived.
