Diablo II lead designer and lead artist form new studio Moon Beast Productions

A pair of former Blizzard North developers from the Diablo II team have formed a new studio called Moon Beast Productions.

Peter Hu and Phil Shenk -- who served as lead designer and lead artist on Diablo II, respectively -- have reunited at Moon Beast to start work on a new original franchise.

This isn't the first time the duo have reconnected since leaving Blizzard, with both having also helped establish Hellgate: London developer Flagship studios with other key members of Blizzard North.

Hu said Moon Beast's debut project will remain true to both founders' ARPG roots, but suggested there'll also be some "big innovations."

"We have huge ambitions for Moon Beast Productions and what we can achieve together," continued Hu. "Phil and I bring a wealth of experience to the table, and we’re both extremely excited about this new project."