38 Studios Gets Big Huge

38 Studios announced today that it has acquired Big Huge Games from THQ. The company calls the move "a critical step" in order to supply "a broad range of entertainment products" based around their Copernicus project. 38 Studios is now owner of all of Big Huge Games' technology, game assets and current projects. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

"The acquisition of Big Huge Games will be tremendously beneficial to the growth, market position, financial stability, and long-term success of 38 Studios," said Brett Close, CEO and President, 38 Studios. "BHG's cross-platform RTS/RPG engine will accelerate the realization of our Online Entertainment Experience for the Copernicus IP. The acquisition enables us to develop and deliver top-quality games in multiple genres that are based in a shared world, ultimately maximizing the value of our Copernicus MMOG and the intellectual property as a whole."

Founded in 2000, Big Huge Games features veterans of games like Alpha Centauri and Civilization II in Brian Reynolds, Jason Coleman, Dave Inscore, and Tim Train, with Elder Scrolls designer Ken Rolston brought on later. Big Huge Games has developed Rise of Nations and is currently working on an unannounced RPG for PS3, PC and Xbox 360. The developer will remain in Timonium, Maryland even after being fully integrated into 38 Studios.

"Big Huge Games and 38 Studios share a common vision – to deliver the most engaging, compelling, original experiences possible," said Tim Train, CEO of Big Huge Games. "Joining the 38 Studios family allows us to continue translating our passions into great games."

"It's always about team," said 38 Studios Founder and Chairman Curt Schilling. "The highly regarded developers at BHG, including leading role-playing and real-time strategy design teams led by Ken Rolston, are a perfect complement to 38 Studios' staggering array of talent. Big Huge Games is a phenomenal team and, culturally, a natural fit."