UK-based nDreams opens new VR studio Compass
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VR games developer and publisher nDreams has opened a new studio named Compass.
As reported by Game Developer, the move comes after it shut down Studio Orbital and nDreams Studio as part of a restructuring program from last year. The firm has moved several employees to Compass while others have been let go.
“As part of the strategic refocus that we announced in September, we regrettably lost talented members of our teams and also altered our multi-studio development structure,” said a company spokesperson.
“This unfortunately meant closing nDreams Studio Orbital and meant that nDreams Studio could not continue in its current form. Both teams did brilliant work and many people from those affected studios have been retained within nDreams’ new look structure, with several of those forming part of the new Compass studio.”
Industry veteran Callum Godfrey (formerly of Activision, EA, and King) will lead Compass, which will focus on creating games for the growing audience of young VR natives. With a 40-person team, the studio said it will prototype games using data and community feedback and will support both hybrid and fully remote work.
Meeting player needs
Just months after announcing plans to cut 17.5% of its workforce to navigate the challenging VR market, nDreams said it remains committed to creating “medium-defining titles.”
Compass studio head Callum Godfrey added: “VR audiences are more diverse than ever, with an influx of gamers into the market who choose VR as their primary gaming platform, and Compass is uniquely placed to meet their needs.”
“Drawing from nDreams’ vast VR experience, and a studio filled with talented and enthusiastic game makers who are empowered to be bold and explore the breadth of different genres, game mechanics, themes and art styles that this new demographic opens up.”
“Compass is fully focused on creating titles that will touch the lives of a new generation of VR players,” said Godfrey.
