34BigThings is returning to independent ownership after co-founder Valerio Di Donata purchased all of the Italian studio’s shares from Embracer Group. The move gives the developer control over its structure and future projects as it outlines a production schedule extending through 2028.
Image credit: 34BigThings
34BigThings returns to independence
Di Donata acquired 100% of the studio’s stock from Embracer Group, bringing 34BigThings back to full independence. The developer is now reportedly the second-largest independent game studio in Italy.
For a studio, independence can mean greater freedom to make decisions about its organization, development methods, and project selection. Di Donata said the change will allow 34BigThings to shape those areas autonomously again. The ownership change itself does not confirm specific changes to existing games or teams.
Founded in Italy, 34BigThings is known for games including Carmageddon Rogue Shift and Redout. The studio has more than 70 employees and will be led by co-founder Giuseppe Enrico Franchi.
Upcoming projects and production plans
34BigThings says it plans to reveal a major game later this year based on a well-known intellectual property. The studio has also scheduled another major title for 2027, followed by a further project planned for 2028.
These dates describe the studio’s stated production plans; they do not provide release dates or detailed information about the games. Until more is announced, readers should treat the projects as upcoming plans rather than assume that a specific launch window or platform has been confirmed.
How the studio fits into Embracer Group’s restructuring
Embracer Group acquired 34BigThings in 2020, during a period when the company was expanding through a series of game-industry acquisitions. Since then, Embracer has changed significantly and separated its operations into three organizations: Asmodee Group, Coffee Stain Group, and Fellowship Entertainment.
Former CEO Lars Wingefors described Fellowship Entertainment’s separation as a long-term organizational solution. He said the purpose was to give management a clearer focus and help the company make better use of its intellectual properties, communities, and development teams. He also said that, like Asmodee and Coffee Stain, Fellowship could benefit from operating as a standalone business.
The 34BigThings transaction is a separate studio-level change within this broader period of restructuring. Its practical impact will become clearer as the independent company shares more information about its projects and operations.
What 34BigThings’ independence means
For players, the immediate takeaway is that 34BigThings is no longer owned by Embracer Group and will continue under independent ownership. Its team, known games, and stated project schedule provide context for what comes next, but further details will depend on future announcements.
In short, 34BigThings has regained autonomy after its co-founder bought the studio’s full shareholding. The developer’s next milestones include a major announcement later this year and projects planned for 2027 and 2028.