Crystal Dynamics opens Pacific Northwest studio

Crystal Dynamics, a subsidiary of Square Enix since 2009, has announced the opening of a satellite studio in Bellevue, Washington, named Crystal Northwest.

The new office, already up and running, is focusing on new technology developments and aiding future game development – including helping with work on Crystal Dynamics’ upcoming tie-in with the Avengers, Marvel’s multibillion-dollar franchise. Crystal Northwest is being run by 20-year industry veterans Chad Queen and James Loe.

“We’re aggressively scaling up our teams and adding a new studio with spectacular talent to deliver the ultimate gaming experiences for our players,” said Scot Amos, co-head of studio at Crystal Dynamics., “We have assembled a team of industry veterans and leaders in order to create gaming experiences that surpass the expectations of our passionate community.”

New hires have arrived at the studio’s Redwood Shores HQ too – among them the likes of God of War alum Vincent Napoli, joining as lead combat designer; creative director of Dead Space 3 Ben Wanat, an 18-year industry veteran; and former executive producer and design director at 343 Industries, David Fifield. Dozens of others have been brought into the fold, too.

“Our new studio in Bellevue, and the new hires in Redwood Shores, represent our continued commitment to the most ambitious project we’ve ever created,” said Ron Rosenberg, the other co-head of studio at Crystal Dynamics. “We’ll keep building on the exciting growth Crystal Dynamics has experienced over the last several years, and are eager to deliver a world-class Avengers experience for fans around the world.”