Full Breakdown
Splash Damage Acquires Gamepires to Expand Game Development
2/27/2026, 7:48:55 PM
Acquisition Overview
Splash Damage, a UK-based co-development studio, has acquired Gamepires, the Croatian developer known for the open-world survival game Scum, from Jagex, the developer of RuneScape. This acquisition, backed by Emona Capital, is part of Splash Damage's strategic shift to enhance its capabilities in multiplayer and live-service gaming. The newly formed entity, Splash Damage Group, will focus on scaling the Scum franchise and developing new intellectual properties (IP).
Background of the Acquisition
Gamepires was previously acquired by Jagex in 2022 while Scum was still in Early Access. The game, which launched in 2018, quickly became a commercial success, selling over a million copies in its first month and reaching nearly six million total sales by June 2025. Jagex has since rebranded itself as Jagex: The RuneScape Company, refocusing on its core IP.
Strategic Intent and Leadership
Ben Hopkinson, who served as CFO at Splash Damage, will take on the role of CEO for the newly formed Splash Damage Group. He described the acquisition as a "defining moment" for the company, emphasizing the importance of independence and experience in navigating the evolving gaming landscape. The acquisition is expected to enable Splash Damage to make strategic decisions independently, enhancing its competitiveness in the industry.
Investment and Future Plans
Emona Capital's involvement is significant, as it has committed "tens of millions of dollars" to support the growth of the newly formed group. The investment aims to accelerate Splash Damage's development efforts and solidify its position as a leading independent developer. The company plans to expand its premium development and co-development partnerships while focusing on the Scum franchise and new IP.
Criticism & Opposition
While the acquisition is framed positively by Splash Damage, there may be concerns regarding the consolidation of studios in the gaming industry. Critics often argue that such mergers can lead to reduced diversity in game development and limit the creative freedom of smaller studios.
Official Statements & Responses
In a press release, Splash Damage stated that the acquisition will combine its expertise in multiplayer and first-person shooter games with Gamepires' strengths in open-world survival and live services. Hopkinson noted, "Our independence and experience, together with the acquisition of Gamepires, strengthens our ability to scale live-service titles and build new premium multiplayer experiences."
Verbatim Quotes
- “Our independence and experience, together with the acquisition of Gamepires, strengthens our ability to scale live-service titles and build new premium multiplayer experiences,” — Ben Hopkinson, CEO of Splash Damage Group.
What's Next
The newly formed Splash Damage Group is expected to focus on expanding its game portfolio and enhancing the Scum franchise. The strategic support from Emona Capital is anticipated to play a crucial role in the group's growth trajectory in the competitive gaming market.
