Activision Launches New Studio for AAA Narrative Franchise

Activision has unveiled Elsewhere Entertainment, a new studio dedicated to developing a “narrative-based and genre-defining AAA franchise.” This new studio, located in Warsaw, Poland, is Activision’s second in the country, following the Krakow-based Infinity Ward Poland.

Elsewhere Entertainment includes developers who have previously worked on acclaimed franchises such as The Last of Us, Uncharted, The Witcher, Cyberpunk, Destiny, The Division, and Far Cry. The studio aims to create a “state-of-the-art and next-generation gaming experience,” though it is not working on a Call of Duty-related project.

Activision’s new studio stands out amid recent industry challenges, including significant layoffs. Last week, Activision Blizzard’s parent company, Microsoft, closed multiple studios, including Tango Gameworks and Arkane Austin. Despite these closures, Elsewhere Entertainment is actively recruiting top talent from across the industry.

Elsewhere Entertainment’s first franchise remains under wraps, but the studio aspires to create a lasting legacy that extends beyond gaming. This ambition suggests a transmedia franchise that could mirror the success of The Last of Us, or potentially even lead to theme park attractions.