• Third Kind Games plans to double its current staff of around 70 within two years

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Video games developer Virtuos has acquired UK-based indie game studio Third Kind Games for an undisclosed fee.

With this acquisition, Virtuos has positioned itself strategically within a key location for the local games industry in Leamington Spa where games such as Far Cry 5, Formula 1, and Forza Horizon were developed.

Third Kind Games’ co-founders – including key figures such as Darren Bowen (COO), Graham Watson (CTO), and Rav Tharanee (CSO) and six others – will continue leading the studio with a team of over 60 staff. 

Setting a global footprint 

To meet rising client demand, Third Kind Games plans to double its staff within two years. This expansion aligns with Virtuos’ goal to grow its global presence as it aims to become a top external game developer across the globe.

“This marks an exciting new chapter for Third Kind Games, enabling us to continue our growth and take on new and exciting AAA projects alongside Virtuos, while continuing to nurture the innovative, creative vision that has always been at the core of our identity,” said chief strategy officer Tharanee. 

“As Virtuos’ first operation in the UK, we are proud to play a pivotal role in expanding their global footprint, and we look forward to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in gaming together.”

Virtuos’ managing director of Western Region adds: “The co-founders of Third Kind Games exemplify the importance of a shared vision and purpose. They succeeded in one of the world’s densest game development hubs, building a portfolio of homegrown and global AAA IPs over eight years.”