NetEase Games, one of the leading global game developers and publishers, has announced the launch of a new AAA game studio, BulletFarm, which will operate under a remote-first approach and will be based in Los Angeles, California. The studio will be led by David Vonderhaar, a renowned industry veteran who is best known for his work on the Call of Duty: Black Ops series.
A New Venture for Vonderhaar and NetEase Games
BulletFarm marks a new venture for both Vonderhaar and NetEase Games, as they aim to create a new and innovative AAA game that will offer a unique perspective on first-person gameplay. Vonderhaar, who has been in the game industry for over 20 years, has been instrumental in shaping the Call of Duty franchise, especially the highly praised Call of Duty: Black Ops series, which has sold over 250 million copies worldwide.
Vonderhaar said that starting this new studio has given him a chance to step out of his comfort zone and try his hand at making something entirely new and different. He said that the game he is working on is a departure from the games he has worked on before, but one that showcases his passion for rich characters, precise mechanics, more intimate storytelling, and plenty of action.
NetEase Games, which has a diverse portfolio of game studios and titles, such as PinCool Inc., T-Minus Zero Entertainment, Fantastic Pixel Castle Studio, and more, has provided BulletFarm with the resources and support required to build this new first-person experience. Simon Zhu, president of global investments and partnerships at NetEase Games, said that Vonderhaar’s leadership and the early collection of game development talent assembled at the studio are set to offer something truly unique for his existing fans and a new audience.
A Co-op Game Built in Unreal Engine 5
BulletFarm is currently developing a co-op game that is built in Unreal Engine 5, the latest and most advanced game engine from Epic Games. The game is set in an original universe that prioritizes cooperative gameplay and aims to create a more personal and engaging experience for the players. The game will also feature stunning graphics and realistic physics, thanks to the power of Unreal Engine 5.
BulletFarm has not revealed much detail about the game yet, but it has teased some concept art and a logo on its official website and social media accounts. The studio has also announced that it is hiring for several key positions and is looking for talented and passionate individuals to join its founding team. The studio is operating under a remote-first strategy, which means that the employees can work from anywhere in the world, as long as they have a good internet connection and a compatible device.
BulletFarm has also stated that it is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment where everyone can feel respected and valued. The studio said that it believes that diversity is essential for making great games, as it brings different perspectives, experiences, and ideas to the table.
A Promising Future for BulletFarm and NetEase Games
BulletFarm is one of the latest additions to the growing list of AAA game studios that are backed by NetEase Games, which is known for its global vision and strategic partnerships. NetEase Games has invested in and collaborated with some of the most prominent game companies in the world, such as Blizzard Entertainment, Bungie, Mojang, and more. NetEase Games has also developed and published some of the most popular and successful games on the global market, such as Knives Out, Identity V, Onmyoji, and more.
BulletFarm is expected to deliver a high-quality and innovative game that will appeal to both hardcore and casual gamers, as well as the fans of Vonderhaar and NetEase Games. The studio has not announced a release date or a platform for the game yet, but it has promised to share more information and updates shortly.
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