Sony Online Entertainment has been sold. The developers behind H1Z1, Planetside 2, and DC Universe Online announced today that they’ve been purchased by Columbus Nova and will be renamed Daybreak Game Company to operate as an independent studio.
“We are excited to join Columbus Nova’s impressive roster of companies. They have a proven track record in similar and related industries and we are eager to move forward to see how we can push the boundaries of online gaming,” says President of Daybreak John Smedley in a press release. “We will continue to focus on delivering exceptional games to players around the world, as well as bringing our portfolio to new platforms, fully embracing the multi-platform world in which we all live.”
For Columbus Nova, a company that specializes in buyouts, they see it as an opportunity to expand their portfolio in the fields of entertainment, technology, and media and they see the developer as a maker of quality titles. “The recent Early Access launch success of H1Z1 is just one testament to the talent and dedication of the studio’s developers to create great online gaming experiences,” says Senior Partner of Columbus Nova Jason Epstein in the same press release.
While both companies seem excited for the future, Smedley is excited for the new opportunities that arise from being independent of Sony. “Can’t wait to work on Xbox One games!” Smedley tweets.
For those curious about the name “Daybreak” the company took to Reddit to explain. “This name embodies who we are as an organization, and is a nod to the passion and dedication of our employees and players,” says Daybreak in a Reddit post.
As for their existing games, Smedley says the acquisition does not mean the end of their old titles. All their games will still be playable.