adminAnchor Point Studios independence marks a significant change for the Barcelona- and Seattle-based developer. The studio, which was launched by NetEase in 2023, is transitioning to independent operations while continuing work on its game and exploring potential partnerships.
Image credit: Anchor Point
Anchor Point Studios independence and the transition from NetEase
CEO Paul Ehreth announced the change as an important milestone for the studio. He said the team is approaching the transition with optimism and remains focused on the game it is developing. Ehreth also expressed gratitude to NetEase for the support, resources, and trust that helped the studio build its team and explore creative ideas.
As an independent developer, Anchor Point Studios says it can focus its creative direction and seek partnerships that fit the project’s ambitions. The studio is now beginning discussions with prospective investors and partners who share its vision for the game and the team behind it.
For readers following the project: the announcement confirms a change in the studio’s operating structure, but does not provide a game title, release date, or details about specific partners.
Who is Anchor Point Studios?
NetEase announced Anchor Point Studios in 2023. The company is led by Paul Ehreth, whose previous roles include director at Smilegate Barcelona and lead designer at Remedy. His work at Remedy included Alan Wake 2 and Control.
The studio has offices in Barcelona, Spain, and Seattle, United States. Its stated focus is action-adventure games for console and PC. These details offer useful context for understanding the team’s background and intended areas of development, although the studio has not shared further specifics about its current game in this announcement.
NetEase’s recent studio changes and financial results
Anchor Point’s move comes amid other changes involving NetEase’s Western operations. The company has spun out or closed several studios, including Bad Brain Game Studios, NetEase Montreal, T-Minus Zero, and Fantastic Pixel Castle. NetEase also recently sold mobile studio Mattel163 to Mattel.
NetEase reported a 6.9% increase in total revenue for 2025, reaching RMB 112.6 billion ($16.1 billion). Revenue from games rose 10.1% year over year, from RMB 83.6 billion ($12.1 billion) in 2024 to RMB 92.1 billion ($13.2 billion).
Online games accounted for 97.3% of gaming revenue. NetEase attributed growth to higher net sales from Fantasy Westward Journey Online, Identity V, Where Winds Meet, and Marvel Rivals.
What to watch next
The next important developments will be whether Anchor Point Studios secures investors or other partners, and whether it shares more information about its game. For now, Anchor Point Studios independence means the team is moving forward outside NetEase while maintaining its stated commitment to the project.
