Is there anything out in the world Chinese media giant Tencent can’t buy? From shares in big-budget video game studios to complete acquisition of smaller indie development houses, Tencent is on an aggressive path to becoming the biggest name in the video game industry. The latest to join the ranks is the Swedish studio Fatshark, primarily known for Warhammer: End Times- Vermintide and its sequel that won the heart of Jay this year.
According to Swedish website DI Digital, Tencent has acquired 36 per cent of the company in a deal worth 500m kronor (around $56m). Fatshark says the investment will strengthen its position as an independent developer and help facilitate future growth.
“We are excited to announce that Tencent has chosen to invest in Fatshark,” CEO Martin Wahlund told GamesIndustry.biz.
“Tencent is known for investing in market leading top rated companies. With the investment, Fatshark is in a strong position to continue to grow while staying independent. Our unaltered mission will be to bring high-quality games to our fans around the globe.”
Fatshark probably stumbled upon Tencent’s radar after the success of last year’s Warhammer: Vermintide 2, which has garnered over a total of 2 million players in less than a year. Hopefully, this business decision will not hamper the ongoing development of Vermintide 2 or impact the future of the series in any way whatsoever.