NetEase, the Chinese gaming giant, continues to reshape its international portfolio, granting independence to Anchor Point Studios, a relatively new studio specializing in action-adventure titles. This move, announced on , marks the latest in a series of strategic shifts for NetEase, which has been spinning out or shuttering several Western-based studios over the past year.
The decision reflects a broader trend of NetEase reassessing its international investments and consolidating resources. Previously, NetEase closed or spun off Ouka Studios (known for Visions of Mana), NetEase Montréal, Bad Brain Game Studios, and Fantastic Pixel Castle. T-Minus Zero Entertainment remains operational but is now independent, while Mattel is now the sole owner of Mattel163, a venture previously shared with NetEase.
Anchor Point Studios, founded in , is led by Paul Ehreth, a veteran of the gaming industry. Ehreth previously held leadership roles at Smilegate Barcelona and served as lead designer at Remedy Entertainment, contributing to critically acclaimed titles such as Alan Wake 2 and Control. The studio maintains offices in Barcelona, Spain, and Seattle, Washington, strategically positioning it to tap into talent pools in both Europe and North America.
Ehreth announced the transition to an independent studio via a LinkedIn post, describing the move as an “important milestone” for the team. “This is a significant change for us, but one that we’re approaching with optimism, clarity, and excitement for what’s ahead,” he wrote. The studio is now actively seeking new investors and partners to secure financing for its debut project, aiming to align funding with its creative ambitions.
NetEase initially launched Anchor Point Studios in as part of an effort to expand its presence in the Western gaming market. However, the company has since undergone a period of restructuring, leading to these divestments and shifts in strategy. The move towards independence allows Anchor Point to pursue its vision with greater autonomy, but also introduces the challenge of securing independent funding.
The studio’s focus remains on developing action-adventure titles for console and PC platforms. Ehreth had previously outlined plans to hire up to 100 people across Europe and North America to realize this vision. While the future of those hiring plans remains uncertain following the restructuring, the core team remains committed to the project. The studio is now engaged in discussions with prospective investors and partners to secure the necessary funding.
This latest move by NetEase underscores a broader trend within the gaming industry, where large companies are re-evaluating their international expansion strategies. Maintaining a foothold in Western markets requires significant investment and navigating complex cultural and logistical challenges. Spinning off studios allows NetEase to reduce its financial exposure while potentially allowing those studios to thrive with more focused leadership and funding from alternative sources.
The implications of this shift for Anchor Point Studios are significant. While independence offers creative freedom, it also necessitates a successful fundraising effort. The studio’s leadership, bolstered by Ehreth’s experience at Remedy and Smilegate, will be crucial in attracting investment and navigating the challenges of operating as an independent entity. The success of Anchor Point’s debut project will likely hinge on its ability to secure the necessary resources and maintain the momentum built during its time as part of NetEase.
The gaming industry will be watching closely to see how Anchor Point Studios navigates this new chapter. The studio’s ability to secure funding and deliver on its creative vision will serve as a test case for NetEase’s broader restructuring strategy and the viability of independent studios within the increasingly competitive Western gaming market.
