NetEase to Close Another Studio: Bad Brain Games

NetEase, the Chinese gaming giant, has announced the closure of yet another studio in its international operations. This time, Bad Brain Games, known for titles like Marvel Rivals, will be shutting down its doors.

The decision to close Bad Brain Games comes as part of NetEase’s alleged withdrawal from its international game development studios. This marks the fifth Western studio that NetEase has shut down in recent months.

Founded by Sean Crooks, a former Riot executive, Bad Brain Games had been struggling to find a new publisher after NetEase pulled the plug on their funding. Without a new publisher in sight, the studio is facing the likelihood of closure.

Bad Brain Games had only been in operation for two years before the announcement of its closure. The studio had been working on various projects, including collaborations with other game developers.

NetEase’s decision to close another studio has raised concerns within the gaming community about the future of the company’s international operations. The closure of Bad Brain Games follows the shutdown of other studios like Watch Dogs devs’ studio and a studio helmed by an ex-Ubisoft producer.

As the video game industry continues to evolve, studio closures have become increasingly common. With the rise of mobile gaming and the dominance of big publishers, smaller studios like Bad Brain Games are finding it harder to compete in the market.

Despite the challenges faced by Bad Brain Games and other studios, the gaming industry remains a vibrant and competitive space. As developers continue to innovate and push boundaries, new opportunities for success will always arise.