Hasbro, the multinational toy and game company, has disclosed a significant investment of over $1 billion in its internal gaming studios. This move is part of a long-term strategy aimed at expanding its gaming empire beyond the success of Baldur's Gate 3.
(Photo : Larian Studios / Screenshot taken from Steam.)
A Strategic Investment
During an interview with GamesIndustry at the Game Developer's Conference in March, Wizards of the Coast head of game studios and publishing, Dan Ayoub, revealed the ambitious plans of Hasbro. Ayoub emphasized the importance of video games in Hasbro's future, stating, "Video games are an integral part of Hasbro's strategy going into the next 100 years."
The $1 billion investment is directed towards Hasbro's four existing AAA studios, aiming to ensure top-notch quality and authenticity in upcoming projects.
Diversifying Hasbro's Gaming Portfolio
Contrary to common perception, Hasbro's gaming endeavors extend beyond Dungeons & Dragons. The company's AAA studio lineup includes ventures like Atomic Arcade and Invoke Studios, developing titles such as G.I. Joe Snake Eyes and new additions to the Dungeons & Dragons universe.
Moreover, Archetype Entertainment, based in Texas, is crafting a new intellectual property (IP) named Exodus, featuring actor Matthew McConaughey. Inspired by acclaimed games like Mass Effect and Knights of the Old Republic, Exodus represents Hasbro's foray into original gaming content.
Ayoub stressed the significance of Baldur's Gate 3's success in shaping Hasbro's gaming strategy, indicating a desire to replicate that triumph across diverse IPs. He also underscored the company's commitment to quality and innovation, evident in the development approach adopted by Larian Studios for Baldur's Gate 3.
Looking Ahead
Despite Larian Studios' decision to move on from Baldur's Gate 3, Hasbro remains determined to expand its gaming horizon. Ayoub assured that new partnerships would be forged to sustain the franchise's momentum.
Related Article: Baldur's Gate 3: Guide to Locating, Rescuing the Mushroom Picker
