In a move as epic as a boss-level gameplay, Avalanche Studios Group revealed today that Montreal, Canada is set to be their next strategic location. This leap across borders comes in the wake of the group’s acquisition of Monster Closet, a Montreal-based studio chock-full of gaming veterans. We’re talking a combined total of over 100 years in AAA game development. Now, that’s a stacked deck!
Montreal Joins a Roster of Global Dev Hubs
Montreal is no small fry in the Avalanche masterplan. This Canadian gaming haven becomes the fifth notch on their location belt, joining the ranks of Stockholm, New York City, Malmö, and Liverpool. Monster Closet’s elite squad has seamlessly fused with Avalanche Studios Group’s existing workforce. The convergence amplifies the development horsepower behind Avalanche’s current and upcoming IPs.
20 Years in the Game and Counting
2023 isn’t just another year for Avalanche Studios Group; it marks their two-decade journey in the gaming world. Stefanía Halldórsdóttir, the CEO of the group, paints the Montreal expansion as the opening cutscene of a brand-new chapter. According to her, making their mark in Montreal isn’t just a corporate expansion—it’s a talent acquisition grind. The move empowers the studio to continue rolling out AAA titles to a global gamer base that’s hungry for more.
Synergy Level 100: Monster Closet’s New Role
Graeme Jennings, the OG bossman of Monster Closet and now the leader of the Montreal wing, echoes this enthusiasm. According to him, both studios vibe on the same wavelength, sharing a hardcore passion for game development. Inclusion, collaboration, and ensuring all player voices are heard round out their shared values. Joining forces with a 20-year industry heavyweight like Avalanche Studios Group? In Jennings’ words, it’s a “dream come true.”
Sustainable Gaming Meets Inclusive Culture
Avalanche Studios Group has more than just game titles in their repertoire; they also hold a strong stance on a sustainable and inclusive work environment. Their goal in Montreal isn’t merely to set up shop but to enrich the local gaming scene with their distinct blend of open-world innovation, player agency, and emergent gameplay.
