Take 2 announced today that they have acquired Czech Republic-based game developer, Illusion Softworks. We’re sure this is causing a, “Who?” moment, however; readers should take note that Illusion Softworks is the same group of developers who brought you hit titles such as Mafia, Hidden & Dangerous, and Vietcong. The company will rename themselves, 2K Czech.
2K President Christoph Hartmann commented, "Adding 2K Czech to our network of development studios demonstrates our strong commitment to creating great franchises and building world-class creative teams. The 2K Czech team is responsible for several very innovative and highly-regarded franchises and we look forward to continuing to develop new and existing IP together."
This will mean higher production funding for future games, including Mafia II, which will be the sequel to their first hit title, Mafia. With Illusion Softworks given this opportunity to utilize a larger funding of cash, there is no telling how many good things could come from it. The firm, however, is very pleased with the extra advantage they have been given.
"We have an excellent working relationship with 2K Games and the utmost respect for them," said Petr Vochozka, CEO of 2K Czech. "We are pleased to become a 2K studio and are confident that this new partnership will strengthen our current and future projects."
This moves helps Take 2 grow their already strong branch of triple-A title studios. With famous studios like Rockstar Games already under their belt, this can only mean good things for the world of gaming as a whole.
Source: Develop Mag