Hi-Rez Studios creates three new distinct dev teams

Hi-Rez Studios, the independently owned team behind the likes of Realm Royale, Paladins and Smite, has announced the creation of three new distinct studios.

Titan Forge Games will focus on and operate ongoing requirements for Smite, the 2014 MOBA that continues to enjoy success on the esports scene. Evil Mojo Games will handle Paladins, the well-received 2018 hero shooter title. Finally, Heroic Leap Games will operate Realm Royale, the early access battle royale title that’s picking up steam on the likes of Twitch.

Chris Larson, formerly executive producer on Smite and Paladins, will take over as general manager of first party studios, with the three teams in his remit. First port of call will be to aid the transition for current workers into the new way of operating, before moving on to hiring new staff to facilitate Hi-Rez’s planned growth.

“The establishment of Titan Forge, Heroic Leap and Evil Mojo as standalone studios enables each of our development teams to fulfil their maximum potential and stay hyper focused on serving their individual player communities,” said Larson in a press release, “We view game operation as a marathon, not a sprint. Our games are built to provide near constant updates over many years. By giving each major game its own dedicated studio and identity, we empower them to control their own destiny and focus exclusively on their player communities, while still having access to our leading shared publishing services.”

As well as the distinct development teams created, Hi-Rez will begin to offer services around its expertise, with esports and art provisions available to third parties. Skillshot Media will focus on building communities through esports, while Alacrity Arthouse will offer art services such as creation of cinematics, 3D modelling, and pipeline consultation.

All of these additional branches will remain under the Hi-Rez Studios umbrella, with the company remaining independent in its development and the services offered.

“We want each person under the Hi-Rez umbrella to be focused on building amazing player communities around incredibly creative and constantly evolving games,” said Stew Chisam, president of Hi-Rez Studios and head of Hi-Rez Publishing, “By organising in this way, we give each group a distinct mission around this common goal. We believe this is the best approach to unleash our creative talent and serve our players, while continuing to grow.”