Nival, 38 Studios Join ESA

Nival and 38 Studios are now members of the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), according to a press release issued by the trade group representing the video game industry in North America.

In case you have been living in a cave, 38 Studios is the development studio founded by former Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling, and also owns Big Huge Games. The company is putting the finishing touches on its first game, Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning, which will be released early next year. The studio is working with such name-brand talent as writer R. A. Salvatore, comic book artist Todd McFarlane and former Elder Scrolls lead developer Ken Rolston.

“At 38 Studios, we create exceptional products through the hard work and vision of our world-renowned artists and programmers,” said Jennifer MacLean, CEO of 38 Studios. “We are eager to join the membership ranks of the ESA and gain the support of an association that is actively promoting the growth and success of our industry.”

PC gamers are more familiar with Nival, who are responsible for such titles as Blitzkrieg, Silent Storm, Etherlords and King's Bounty: Legions. The company is also developing Prime World.

“Nival promotes innovation and creativity among its employees,” said David D Christensen, general manager of Nival’s North American office. “We felt it was an important step in our expansion into North America to include joining the ESA, which is dedicated to protecting the interests of video game developers and fostering creativity. We anticipate a fruitful partnership as we develop and publish innovative games for a wide audience of players.”

“These companies are at the forefront of our industry, leveraging the vast experience and talent of their creative teams to develop and publish quality entertainment enjoyed by gamers around the world,” said Michael D. Gallagher, president and CEO of the ESA. “We look forward to working with these companies as we further our mission to fight piracy, protect the First Amendment liberties of video games, and position our industry for future growth.”

Source: IndustryGamers