Sumo Digital opening second UK studio later this year

UK developer Sumo Digital is planning to open a second studio before the year is out as part of a major expansion.

The studio has had a productive year, working on titles such as Disney Infinity 3.0, Forza Horizon 2 and LittleBigPlanet 3, and is currently working on Crackdown 3.

The new branch will be based in the UK and adds to the established Sumo headquarters in Sheffield and an art studio in Pune, India. Details on the new studio are expected to be revealed at a later date, but Sumo has said it is recruiting across all disciplines, with more information to be posted at Sumo-Digital.com.

News of the second UK studio emerged as the developer announced two key appointments.

Firstly, Ian Livingstone has joined as non-executive chairman. Livingstone is known to many in the industry thanks to his work at Eidos, Creative Skillset and efforts surrounding his Next Gen Skills Report, which advised the government on how to better prepare young people for careers in the games industry.

Secondly, Sumo has hired Kats Sato as development director. He joins from Codemasters where he handled external development and boasts 20 years of experience, starting his career at Sega of Japan.

“We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Ian on board during this exciting time for Sumo,” said Sumo CEO Carl Cavers. “His experience will add tremendous value and will really help us to move forward with our strategic ambitions.”

Last year, Sumo Digital began a management buyout.