Amplitude Studios has been reestablished as an independent studio after management bought the studio back from Sega.
Sega says the sale follows a “period of close consultation” between Amplitude and Sega management and “concludes structural reforms that have been taking place in Sega's European business.” The publisher previously canceled plans to release live-action shooter Hyenas, leading to job losses at British studio Creative Assembly.
Sega acquired Amplitude in 2016. During that time it released Endless Space 2, Humankind, and Endless Dungeon.
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“Sega Europe today announced the sale of Amplitude Studios following a management buyout of senior management and employees of the Paris studio. The move will see Amplitude return to its roots as an independent organization and conclude the structural reforms that have been underway. in Sega's European business,” Sega said in a statement to the press.
“The decision to part ways follows a period of close consultation between Sega Europe and Amplitude. As an independent studio once again, Amplitude will focus on its projects in development and the growth of its own franchises, while Sega will continue to advance its strong and diverse stable of Japanese and Western intellectual property.
“While Amplitude is no longer part of the Sega family of studios, the two entities will continue to work together on a seamless transition of services and operations, ensuring minimal disruption for Amplitude employees and continuity of service for gamers. Amplitude games,” Sega said. he concluded.
“Amplitude is backed by strong and meaningful franchises, and our team is committed to creating the best games possible,” said Romain de Waubert de Genlis, head of the studio.
“This decision allows us to be more agile in our approach while continuing to shape the vision we have had from the beginning, allowing us to push the boundaries and be closer than ever to our community.”
As for what's still in store for Sega? Their “AAA” reboot Crazy Taxi will be a massively multiplayer open-world game. It's just one of five new classic franchise titles announced last December, along with new entries in the Jet Set Radio, Shinobi, Golden Ax and Streets of Rage franchises.