2K launches new studio to build its next blockbuster sports franchise
2K establishes Small Axe Studios to create a major new sports game franchise, tapping former EA FIFA leads for an anticipated soccer project.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- 2K announces the launch of a new AAA game development studio named Small Axe Studios
- The studio aims to build the company's next blockbuster sports franchise
- Brings in former EA FIFA franchise lead Aaron McHardy as studio head
- Emerged from the 2K Sports Lab project originally announced in 2023
Gaming giant 2K is establishing a brand-new AAA game development studio called Small Axe Studios, setting an ambitious goal to construct the company's next blockbuster sports franchise, according to a LinkedIn post.
While the initial announcement does not explicitly specify which sport the upcoming title will focus on, an image featured in the post displays what appears to be a mockup soccer badge. This strongly suggests that Small Axe could be developing a soccer game poised to go head-to-head with EA Sports FC. Furthermore, the official Small Axe website lists senior staff members who bring valuable experience working on EA's FIFA series, the former name of EA Sports FC, including studio head Aaron McHardy who previously led that very franchise.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
This strategic expansion marks a significant move for 2K as it seeks to broaden its sports game portfolio beyond its established titles. Given the massive global audience and revenue potential of soccer video games, bringing in veteran developers who shaped the genre's biggest competitor highlights 2K's serious intent to challenge the existing market leaders.
Small Axe traces its roots back to the 2K Sports Lab, a project that 2K officially announced back in 2023. Transforming this initiative into a dedicated, fully-fledged studio signifies a major escalation in the publisher's development capabilities for sports titles.
Whatever this mystery game turns out to be, it will expand 2K's existing roster of established sports titles, which currently includes:
- Basketball (NBA 2K)
- Wrestling (WWE 2K)
- Golf (PGA Tour 2K)
Source: The Verge
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