NetEase Games, the online gaming arm of China-based NetEase, has announced that it will be opening Jackalope Games, a new studio in the U.S. Located in Austin, Texas, the studio will be developing primarily PC and console titles.

Jack Emmert, who worked on renowned MMORPGs like City of Heroes, Neverwinter, Star Trek Online, and DC Universe Online, will be leading the newly announced studio. According to Emmert:

“NetEase Games is the best possible place for me and my team to thrive. We share the same passion—to create engaging online universes for gamers worldwide. NetEase Games is providing the support and resources needed to build a great studio and great games.”

Jackalope Games is NetEase Games’ first first-party studio in the U.S., but it will operate independently and maintain creative autonomy in its game development and publishing. The first project produced by the studio will be fully funded by NetEase Games.

Jackalope Games believes that collaboration and diversity are necessary ingredients for studio success. Although based in Austin, the studio embraces the virtual office and hires talent from all over the world.

NetEase Games has acquired various studios recently, such as No More Heroes developer Grasshopper Manufacture.

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