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Keywords Studios has announced the acquisition of U.S.-based developer Certain Affinity for an undisclosed amount. Founded in 2006 by former Bungie employees, Certain Affinity has established itself as a key partner in AAA game co-development. Its portfolio includes contributions to major titles like Hogwarts Legacy, Gotham Knights, and installments from the Call of Duty and Halo franchises, including Halo Infinite.
The studio will retain its existing leadership team, with founder and CEO Max Hoberman and president and COO Paul Sams continuing to oversee operations. The team currently manages 180 employees across the U.S. and Canada.
The deal remains subject to standard closing conditions and will feature a mix of an upfront cash payment, funded through Keywords’ revolving credit facility, and an earn-out arrangement tied to Certain Affinity’s future performance.
Hoberman expressed optimism about the acquisition, stating, “During these challenging market conditions, we’re grateful to provide stability and a supportive environment for our team. Keywords has demonstrated a deep respect for our talent and culture, along with a commitment to invest in our growth.”
He added that he and Sams are eager to work alongside Keywords in expanding the studio’s co-development efforts, improving lead development capabilities, and fostering growth within the Create division.
Earlier this year, in April, Certain Affinity had to lay off 10% of its workforce, citing an industry-wide slowdown in new projects and limited investment from third parties as key factors.
Bertrand Bodson, CEO of Keywords Studios, expressed excitement about the partnership, saying, “We are delighted to welcome Certain Affinity to the Keywords Group. Their reputation and expertise in AAA co-development are highly regarded. This acquisition strengthens our Create division while expanding our presence across the U.S. and Canada.”
Bodson further emphasized the value of the partnership, noting, “We look forward to collaborating with Max, Paul, and their team to drive growth across our Create division and the broader business.”
This acquisition marks Keywords’ second of 2024, following the purchase of UK-based Wushu Studios in August.
Source: Keywords acquires Halo co-developer Certain Affinity
The studio will retain its existing leadership team, with founder and CEO Max Hoberman and president and COO Paul Sams continuing to oversee operations. The team currently manages 180 employees across the U.S. and Canada.
The deal remains subject to standard closing conditions and will feature a mix of an upfront cash payment, funded through Keywords’ revolving credit facility, and an earn-out arrangement tied to Certain Affinity’s future performance.
Hoberman expressed optimism about the acquisition, stating, “During these challenging market conditions, we’re grateful to provide stability and a supportive environment for our team. Keywords has demonstrated a deep respect for our talent and culture, along with a commitment to invest in our growth.”
He added that he and Sams are eager to work alongside Keywords in expanding the studio’s co-development efforts, improving lead development capabilities, and fostering growth within the Create division.
Earlier this year, in April, Certain Affinity had to lay off 10% of its workforce, citing an industry-wide slowdown in new projects and limited investment from third parties as key factors.
Bertrand Bodson, CEO of Keywords Studios, expressed excitement about the partnership, saying, “We are delighted to welcome Certain Affinity to the Keywords Group. Their reputation and expertise in AAA co-development are highly regarded. This acquisition strengthens our Create division while expanding our presence across the U.S. and Canada.”
Bodson further emphasized the value of the partnership, noting, “We look forward to collaborating with Max, Paul, and their team to drive growth across our Create division and the broader business.”
This acquisition marks Keywords’ second of 2024, following the purchase of UK-based Wushu Studios in August.
Source: Keywords acquires Halo co-developer Certain Affinity