Nintendo snags top studio from Embracer's breakup

Nintendo has acquired Shiver Entertainment, a studio known for porting popular games such as Mortal Kombat 1 to the Nintendo Switch. This move comes amid a series of changes within Embracer Group, which has recently sold off Saber Interactive and Gearbox Software. Shiver Entertainment, established in 2012, will now operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of Nintendo, focusing on porting and developing software for multiple platforms, including the Switch. The acquisition follows Nintendo's purchase of Dynamo Pictures in 2022, supporting the company's aim to increase brand familiarity and expand its portfolio of development resources.

With Shiver Entertainment now a part of Nintendo, players can expect higher-quality game ports on the Switch, leveraging Shiver's expertise and resources to enhance the gaming experience across multiple platforms.

Mortal Kombat 1 is a key example of Shiver Entertainment's porting capabilities. As one of the most iconic fighting game franchises, Mortal Kombat has seen numerous successful installments. The series is known for its intense combat mechanics, elaborate fatalities, and a rich lore that has captivated fans since the early 1990s. With Shiver's involvement, the Switch version of Mortal Kombat 1 benefited from a faithful adaptation that maintained the game's renowned features and performance on Nintendo's hybrid console.