The Gearbox Entertainment Company recently merged with the Embracer Group in a $1.3 billion deal. Of course, this makes one question the future of the Borderlands franchise especially when taking 2K Games into account. However, it doesn’t seem like things will be changing between the two companies any time soon.
A spokesperson from 2K Games told IGN that, “As the proud publisher of the Borderlands franchise, we are happy for our partners at Gearbox and this exciting new chapter for their organization. The merger does not change 2K’s relationship with Gearbox nor our role as the publisher for the Borderlands IP or any other projects we are currently working on with the studio.” It thus looks forward to “continuing our long-term partnership with this incredibly talented team and delivering many more exciting entertainment experiences to gaming fans around the world.”
It’s interesting especially when one factors in the “other Gearbox projects” part of the statement. Then again, one of the main benefits to the Embracer Group is Gearbox’s position in the North American market, one that could lead to more mergers down the line. Having a strong relationship with 2K Games, and by extension Take Two Interactive, could help in that regard, besides ensuring strong marketing and exposure for Gearbox’s titles.
The Embracer Group has made a number of big acquisitions recently, including Aspyr Media. The latter is reportedly working on a big-name project with a budget of $70 million. Rumors suggest that this is the new Star Wars: Knights of the Republic title but we’ll have to wait for more details in the coming months.
