Nexon acquires minority stake in Bleszinski’s new studio Boss Key

Nexon America has acquired a minority stake in Cliff Bleszinki’s freshly unveiled studio Boss Key Productions, the two companies revealed earlier this week in a joint announcement.

Along with ownership of a portion of the company, the agreement terms also give Nexon exclusive worldwide publishing and marketing rights to Boss Key’s first game, which the studio has confirmed will be a free-to-play shooter codenamed BlueStreak.

"Making the move to free-to-play games is all about maximizing the potential audience for your title while embracing where the industry is headed," Bleszinski said in a statement accompanying the announcement.

"No one knows the free-to-play market better than Nexon, which is why they were the obvious partner to publish BlueStreak. It’s a game and concept I think will really resonate with players who have been clamoring for a new take on an old favorite. After all, I’ve had a year and a half to plan it."

Bleszinksi made his official return to game development earlier this week with Boss Key’s formation. The former Gears of War lead is presuming the role of CEO, while Arjan Brussee (EA producer and Guerrilla Games co-founder) will handle COO duties.