Exient opening new studio in Malta

UK developer Exient is opening new studio in Floriana, Malta.

The new branch will officially open in March, with Exient group design director Jon Gibson taking on the role of studio director.

Speaking to Develop, Gibson said he hoped to grow the office to 55 staff by the end of the year, with further expansion depending on the developer’s needs.

The studio will focus on working on "major IP" with its development partners, as well as creating its own IP.

"Malta is fast becoming an important development hub, with 20 game studios already operating on the island nation," said Gibson.

"It’s also a very attractive place to set up, being a more cost-effective location than many other European cities as well as a beautiful place to live and work. This makes it a great location for attracting new talent, allowing us to rapidly expand our operation. And with a wealth of culture, blue skies and beautiful beaches, it’s an awesome place to have a presence."

Exient’s expansion into Malta comes seven months after the company opened a new office in Leamington Spa. The developer’s headquarters is based in Oxford.