TAKE-TWO acquires GEARBOX, plans NEW BORDERLANDS

Take-Two Interactive has acquired the Gearbox Entertainment Company from Embracer Group for a total of $460 million, most notably securing the Borderlands franchise along with other Gearbox assets. This transaction will see Gearbox Software, Gearbox Montreal, and Gearbox Studio Quebec, as well as popular game titles including Tiny Tina's Wonderlands, Homeworld, Risk of Rain, Brothers in Arms, and Duke Nukem come under Take-Two's stewardship. Announced alongside the purchase is the development news of a new Borderlands game and another entry in the Homeworld series, signaling a continued commitment to these beloved series. The sale is expected to complete by June's end, with Gearbox to be integrated into Take-Two's 2K publishing label, yet keeping its current CEO, Randy Pitchford. Embracer Group, meanwhile, retains several other assets, including Gearbox Publishing and Cryptic Studios, among others.

After a series of acquisitions, Embracer Group is now divesting several of its studios, having previously sold off Saber Interactive and shuttering others such as Volition. The deal notably deviates from standard cash transactions, as Embracer will receive Take-Two shares as compensation. Take-Two's relationship with Gearbox precedes the sale, having published the Borderlands series and collaborating on an upcoming film as well as the game Battleborn. This acquisition signifies a significant re-consolidation of gaming assets under the Take-Two umbrella.

Included in the Gearbox acquisition by Take-Two Interactive are the popular game franchises Borderlands, Tiny Tina's Wonderlands, Homeworld, Risk of Rain, Brothers in Arms, and Duke Nukem.

The Borderlands series, especially, is a cornerstone of the Gearbox portfolio, defined by its unique blend of first-person shooting and role-playing elements, vast open worlds, distinctive cartoonish graphics, and dark humor. Borderlands has established a fervent fan base since its inception in 2009, with multiple mainline entries and spin-offs expanding the universe. It's also known for pioneering the 'looter-shooter' sub-genre. The franchise has seen continued success with several DLC packs and a forthcoming movie adaptation signaling the cultural impact of the series. The news of a new Borderlands game in development reassures fans that the series will continue to thrive under the new ownership of Take-Two Interactive.