Italian game studio 34BigThings has announced its return to independence, six years after being acquired by Embracer Group. Original co-founder Valerio Di Donato has purchased full ownership of the studio, which will now be led by Di Donato, fellow co-founder Giuseppe Enrico Franchi, and new CFO Daniel Giagnorio.
In a statement, Di Donato expressed gratitude for Embracer's stewardship, crediting the company with enabling 34BigThings to grow to over 70 employees and establish itself as a respected European developer. He noted that the period provided valuable structure and stability, along with insights into managing internal development alongside external stakeholders.
Franchi elaborated on the benefits of independence, telling PC Gamer that it grants the studio "absolute autonomy to shape our structure, our projects, and our development approach." This freedom, he explained, allows them to select projects, discard unviable ideas, allocate resources as they see fit, and quickly capitalize on external opportunities without extensive approval processes.
The move comes at a time of significant restructuring within Embracer Group, which has seen numerous layoffs, studio closures, and divestments in recent years. However, 34BigThings maintains that its decision to regain independence was independent of any wider discussions within Embracer.
Franchi stated that the studio intends to kick off this new phase with a significant announcement. "Later this year, we will be announcing a major title built on one of the most important, beloved, and revered intellectual properties in the world," he revealed. This project is just the beginning, with further major titles scheduled for 2027 and 2028, promising a robust production pipeline for the newly independent studio. The studio's previous work includes the Redout racing series, Mars or Die!, and Otto, alongside the recent Carmageddon: Rogue Shift.