Avalanche Software is alive again thanks to Warner Bros

The previously-closed developer behind Disney Infinity Avalanche Software is to re-open its doors courtesy of a deal with Warner Bros.

The publisher has announced that it has re-established Avalanche Software as a first-party studio. Despite its new ownership, the developer will still be led by previous CEO John Blackburn and features many of its former staff. Furthermore, Warner Bros has purchased the rights to the developer’s Octane engine.

Avalanche will working on a Cars 3 video game, which is set for release in 2017.

The studio was shut in May 2016 as Disney pulled out of the console game market, ending development on its Disney Infinity toys-to-life franchise.

This latest deal is in-line with Disney’s move to a licensing model. The entertainment giant already works with other publishers such as EA for its Star Wars games, and Telltale for a Guardians of the Galaxy release.

It is a tremendous pleasure to welcome Avalanche Software into our development stable, and we look forward to working with our new team, Pixar Animation Studios, and DCPI to create Cars 3 based on the upcoming film and hugely popular franchise,” said WBIE president, David Haddad.

The Avalanche talent and technology are a great addition to our group of outstanding developers, and we are excited for this Cars 3 game as well as all of the future games the team will create under John’s leadership.”