BreakAway Opens Austin Studio

Maryland-based game developer BreakAway, known primarily for PC strategy games such as Emperor: Rise of the Middle Kingdom, expansions for Tropico and Pharaoh, and strategy engine licensing relationships with the Army War College and The Joint Chiefs Office of Net Assessment, has announced the opening of a new studio in Austin, Texas. The move comes after a recent 50 percent jump in 2004 profits, and the acquisition of several new key team members. BreakAway CEO Doug Whatley commented: "This is a very exciting move for BreakAway. Our long-term growth strategy requires expansion, new talent, and new projects, and our Austin studio is the latest step in making that strategy a reality. We are committed to making BreakAway the premier serious game development company in the country." The new studio will be run by Mike McShaffry, known for his work with Origin (Ultima VII to IX) and Ion Storm (Thief: Deadly Shadows). BreakAway’s Austin branch will focus on military simulations and original console titles. This announcement comes shortly after Midway's announcement of a new Austin studio and the closing of Acclaim's Austin development arm, capping a turbulent few days for Austin area game professionals.