Paradox Interactive sent over word this morning that it’s sold its shares in Seattle-based studio Hardsuit Labs to Keyword Studios for a sum of 4 million USD, which is part of Keywords’ complete acquisition of HSL.
In 2018, Paradox initially acquired a 33 percent stake in the developer, Hardsuit Labs, for 2 million USD. Hardsuit Labs was entrusted with the development of Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines 2 for Paradox. However, the project encountered several setbacks and in February 2021, following multiple delays, It was then confirmed that Hardsuit Labs would no longer helm the development of the game.
The partnership between the two entities has been fraught with challenges, and the successor for the development of Bloodlines 2 remains uncertain. However, recent rumors have suggested that The Chinese Room may have assumed the development role. This speculation emerged when fans identified what seemed to be a new version of Bloodlines 2 in a developer update video on its YouTube channel.
“Paradox Interactive AB (Paradox) has divested its shares in the Seattle-based studio Hardsuit Labs, Inc (HSL) to Keyword Studios plc (Keywords) for a cash consideration of MUSD 4.0. The divestment was a part of a complete acquisition of HSL by Keywords.” reads the statement sent over by Paradox Interactive.
Hardsuit Labs has gained recognition primarily for developing Blacklight Retribution, along with assembling console ports for numerous publishers. While their second self-developed game was intended to be Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines 2.
Keywords Studios is a studio that offers technical services to the global video games industry. Established in 1998 and headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, the company provides a range of services across the game development lifecycle, including art creation, game development, localization, player support, and testing.
So far this year, there have been no updates from Paradox Interactive concerning the development of Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines 2, nor any information on who has assumed development responsibilities. However, we will keep our readers informed should any new information arise. Paradox Interactive has been contacted for comment, and we will share any response we receive.
Paradox responded to our request for comment with the following statement:
“The development of Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines 2 is being led by another studio and Hardsuit Labs is no longer involved. We will have news to share regarding the new studio at a later time.” said a Paradox Interactive spokesperson.
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