Perfect World and Cryptic Studios form Cryptic North

Champions Online developer Cryptic Studios and publisher Perfect World Entertainment have created Cryptic North to assist with the companies’ library of MMOs.

The new Seattle-based studio will assist Cryptic in evolving its free-to-play superhero MMO, as well as provide support for other MMO titles like Star Trek Online and Neverwinter.

Industry veteran and Flying Lab Software co-founder Russell Williams will lead the new division. His previous experience includes work on MMO Pirates of the Burning Sea and train sim Rails Across America.

"I look forward to working closely with Perfect World and the talented developers at Cryptic Studios on Champions Online, Star Trek Online, Neverwinter and future projects," Williams said.

Perfect World CEO Alan Chen added that the publisher is excited to welcome Williams and Cryptic North on.

"We are excited to welcome Russell Williams and the team at Cryptic North to the Perfect World family," Chen said. "Williams’ experience as a leader and creator of award-winning titles will play a critical role at Cryptic North and help grow Champions Online."