Amazon has acquired game development studio, Double Helix Games, who were behind the recent Killer Instinct title for Xbox One and are working on the upcoming Strider game. While financial terms are being kept under wraps, the deal was for both IP and talent, meaning the workers will become Amazon employees, though working conditions will not change.
In a statement released to TechCrunch, Amazon confirmed that this was the case, after an invite from both Amazon and Double Helix to a recruiting event in LA was leaked.
“Amazon has acquired Double Helix as part of our ongoing commitment to build innovative games for customers.”
So, that basically confirms that Amazon will be joining the games industry. And in a big way, it seems, as Double Helix are well known for console (including the new generation bunch) rather than small mobile titles.
This backs up rumours of Amazon working on a dedicated console of their own, which may work similarly to the Kindle Fire but on a screen. It’s suggested that the console will have a higher price point – though still under $300 – which means a more powerful Android-based machine, though it won’t be anything to compete with PS4 or Xbox One in terms of power.
Source: TechCrunch
DividSmythe
At least if at all Double helix won’t turn into another unneeded touch base game producer (says this with fingers crossed).
Amphlett
Very interesting from a gaming point of view but, also from a business point of view. Buying companies like this for their IP and ‘talent’ always seems a little risky as the ‘talent’ can up and leave whenever they want, leaving an empty shell of a company (I’ve been through this myself).
a inferior race
Won’t buy from them goin forward until Amazon decides to pay tax