5 XBLA games make $22m for worldâ??s largest indie

The world’s largest independent developer, Foundation 9 Entertainment, is jumping into the industry spotlight after quiet, sustained success.

The multi-house work-for-hire developer, which currently employs 700, says it has generated revenues over $22 million for its five most successful XBLA titles.

And the developer revealed that its digital product comprised of nearly 15 per cent of the existing XBLA platform.

“No other developer can claim more titles on the platform,” the group said.

In terms of retail, the firm remains a huge asset to the market. In 2009, F9E’s retail games made £36.83 million in the UK.

That data was revealed in this year’s Develop 100 – Develop’s annual guide to the world’s most successful game studios (found below).

“Foundation 9 Entertainment is the game industry’s secret weapon,” says James North-Hearn, CEO of the company.

“While most consumers don’t know our name, the biggest and best-loved game publishers around the world turn to Foundation 9 Entertainment to build games for all genres and platforms. As the digital category grows we will continue to invest in technology and talent, cementing our leadership by bringing great digital games to market.”

Foundation 9 says it will continue to invest in digital and downloadable content across all platforms.

“Unlike smaller independent developers, the size and scale of F9E enables the company to continue to invest in new technology and stay on top of the latest gaming trends,” the group said.

Foundation 9 owns six independent studios; Backbone Entertainment, Double Helix, Griptonite, ImaginEngine, Pipeworks, and Sumo Digital.

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