Amplitude Launches New Game After Breaking Free from Sega
URGENT UPDATE: French indie studio Amplitude has taken a bold step into the future by launching its new strategy game, Endless Legend 2, just days after regaining its independence from Sega. This pivotal moment, occurring in November 2024, marks a significant transition for the company, which had been under Sega’s umbrella since 2016.
As the gaming industry faces challenges, Amplitude’s decision to break free could redefine its trajectory. “When you’re independent, you have to be crystal clear that every game could be the last,” said Romain de Waubert de Genlis, head of the Paris-based studio. With a team of 50 developers, Amplitude is poised to release an early-access version of Endless Legend 2 for PC, with a polished final release expected in 2025.
The backdrop of this bold move is a broader industry slowdown that has seen major cuts at Sega, including layoffs across Europe. Amplitude’s buyout, supported by around 30 employees and external investors, allowed them to retain their intellectual property and approximately 170 staff members. “We would never have been able to leave Sega without the crisis,” de Waubert de Genlis revealed.
In a significant financial boost, Amplitude secured 12 million euros ($14 million) in funding from sources including the French public investment bank Bpifrance and American firm Griffin Gaming Partners. “What was at stake was continuing to make the type of game that we’re good at,” de Waubert de Genlis added, emphasizing the importance of creative freedom.
The team has already seen enthusiasm from gamers, with over 300,000 wishlists for Endless Legend 2 on the Steam platform. This strong interest signals a promising reception as they transition into independence.
Creative director Jean-Max Moris highlighted the unique approach to game development that sets Amplitude apart. “It’s this community-based development that really sets us apart from other studios.” The terms of their separation from Sega also allowed them to retain their “Games2Gether” platform, which boasts over 2 million users providing feedback on game balance and features.
As Amplitude embraces this new chapter, they are also working on another unannounced title and an animated series within the “Endless” universe, developed with British production company Passion Pictures. “Going independent has really created a sense of standing over the abyss,” Moris stated, underscoring the risks involved.
With this major transition and the upcoming release of Endless Legend 2, all eyes will be on Amplitude as they navigate the challenges of independence in a competitive gaming landscape. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story that could reshape the future of indie game development.
