NetEase Games, one of China’s predominant video game developers and publishers, is making an impactful entry into the bustling gaming landscape of the West.
Setting its sights on Austin, Texas, the company recently unveiled its newest venture: T-Minus Zero Entertainment. This studio, though nestled in the heart of Austin like its sibling Jackalyptic Games, is adopting a remote-first ideology, indicating the modern and flexible direction the gaming industry is gravitating towards.
Headlining this ambitious project is none other than Rich Vogel, an emblematic figure in the gaming world. With titles such as Ultima Online, Star Wars: Galaxies, and Star Wars: The Old Republic in his repertoire, Vogel’s legacy is one of a kind, built on innovation and excellence. Recently honored with the Up-and-Comer Award at the GamesBeat Summit 2023, Vogel’s reputation precedes him. He’s not only adept at creating compelling game worlds but also at founding successful studios. From Sony Online Entertainment Austin and BioWare Austin to Bethesda Game Studios Austin, Vogel has been the powerhouse behind enterprises that are nearing an impressive $3 billion in cumulative lifetime revenue.
With NetEase Games’ backing, the reins of creativity are firmly in the hands of the developers, allowing them to realize their visions without financial distractions.
Ironically, NetEase and Blizzard aren’t on the best terms as of earlier this year due to a legal spat.
In any case, Vogel’s enthusiasm resonates in his statement: “Our studio’s mission is to create epic, immersive worlds where players from around the globe can play together, forming vibrant and passionate communities.” The sentiment is echoed by Simon Zhu, president of global investments and partnerships at NetEase Games, who praised the exemplary talent pool at T-Minus Zero Entertainment. The collaboration, Zhu emphasizes, is anchored in empowering creators to construct games that not only inspire players but also evolve with their community.
But Vogel isn’t embarking on this odyssey alone. Accompanying him is a legion of industry stalwarts. Mark Tucker, a veteran with titles like Fallout 76, Doom, and Crimson Alliance to his credit, is on board as the game director. The art realm of this new universe is entrusted to Jeff Dobson, known for his artistic imprints on Dragon Age: Inquisition and Mass Effect: Andromeda. Meanwhile, ensuring the wheels of operations and production run smoothly is Scott Malone, who brings his experience from The Elder Scrolls Online and Doom.
These founders, each boasting an average industry experience of over two decades, are fervently working on T-Minus Zero Entertainment’s debut title. Described tantalizingly as an ‘online multiplayer third-person action game’, this title promises to be set in an uncharted sci-fi universe. Given the team’s collective pedigree and NetEase Games’ investment in such ventures as Quantic Dream and Nagoshi Studio, the gaming community waits with bated breath for what promises to be a masterpiece.
However, as with any magnum opus, perfection takes time. Given that the studio’s foundation stone was only laid back in May, it might be a while before gamers get a glimpse of this new realm. But if Vogel’s past endeavors are any indication, the wait will unquestionably be worth it.
T-Minus Zero Entertainment, while firmly rooted in Austin, is steadfast in its remote-first approach. This decision not only resonates with the current global work culture but also opens doors to a vast reservoir of global talent. For those wizards of game development seeking to etch their mark in the annals of gaming history, T-Minus Zero beckons.
In a world where new games sprout daily, T-Minus Zero Entertainment is not just another studio. It’s a statement and a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and vision.
