ZeniMax Media Acquires Arkane Studios

ROCKVILLE, Md., Aug. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- ZeniMax Media Inc., parent company of noted game publisher Bethesda Softworks, today announced it has completed the acquisition of veteran game developer Arkane Studios.

Founded in 1999, Arkane has offices in Lyon, France and Austin, Texas and is led by co-creative directors Raphael Colantonio, Arkane's founder and CEO who will also serve as president of Arkane, and Harvey Smith, lead designer on Deus Ex.  Arkane's first title, Arx Fatalis, was released in 2002 and became a fan favorite with its highly detailed environments and innovative gameplay. In addition, Arkane developed Dark Messiah of Might and Magic (PC version), and has collaborated on a number of high profile game projects, including Bioshock 2. Arkane is currently working on an unannounced project with Bethesda Softworks.

"This is an exciting moment for Arkane. After 11 years of independent development, we couldn't think of a better publishing partner," said Colantonio. "We share so many creative values. Joining the ZeniMax family will allow us to grow stronger while staying true to the games we love."

Arkane joins a group of development studios which includes id Software and Bethesda Game Studios, two of the finest, most respected videogame developers in the world. This deal further underscores Bethesda's commitment to delivering premier titles to gamers worldwide.

"We are very pleased to be able to bring another experienced, high quality developer like Arkane to the ZeniMax group of studios," said Robert Altman, Chairman and CEO of ZeniMax Media. "Raphael and his talented team have earned a reputation for creating immersive, innovative games which enhances our ability to deliver AAA quality games to our many fans."

About ZeniMax® Media Inc.

ZeniMax Media is a preeminent media organization which has brought together a team of world class game developers, artists and designers, programmers, producers, and leading executives and talent from traditional media.  ZeniMax Media creates and publishes original interactive entertainment content for consoles, the PC, and handheld/wireless devices.  ZeniMax Media divisions include Bethesda Softworks, Bethesda Game Studios, id Software, Arkane Studios, Vir2L Studios, ZeniMax Europe Ltd., and ZeniMax Online Studios.  ZeniMax, Bethesda Softworks, Bethesda Game Studios, The Elder Scrolls, Oblivion, Morrowind and related logos are registered trademarks or trademarks of ZeniMax Media Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries.  Fallout is a registered trademark or trademark of Bethesda Softworks LLC in the U.S. and/or other countries.   Arkane, Arx Fatalis and related logos are registered trademarks or trademarks of Arkane Studios in the U.S. and/or other countries.  For more information on ZeniMax Media, visit www.zenimax.com.

About Bethesda Softworks®

Bethesda Softworks, part of the ZeniMax Media Inc. family of companies, is a premier developer and worldwide publisher of interactive entertainment software and has produced numerous award-winning titles, most recently with 2006 PC and Xbox 360® Game of the Year and RPG of the Year, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion®, and the 2002 PC and Xbox® Game of the Year and RPG of the Year, The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind®.  Among Bethesda's more popular franchises are The Elder Scrolls® series and Fallout®. For more information on Bethesda Softworks' products, visit www.bethsoft.com. 

About Arkane® Studios

Founded in 1999, Arkane has offices located in Lyon, France and Austin, TX and has attracted diverse and talented developers with a passion for creating detailed, immersive worlds.  Arkane is currently working on an unannounced title for Bethesda Softworks.

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SOURCE ZeniMax Media Inc.