Canadian studio Blackbird Interactive, founded in 2007 by Relic Entertainment and EA Canada alumni, is known for Hardspace: Shipbreaker. Besides original games, they engage in work-for-hire and co-development projects.
Canadian studio Blackbird Interactive, founded in 2007 by Relic Entertainment and EA Canada alumni, is known for Hardspace: Shipbreaker. Besides original games, they engage in work-for-hire and co-development projects. Examples include Minecraft Legends, Homeworld 3, Escape the Backrooms, and Starfield DLC Terran Armada. The studio's business model involves reinvesting profits from work-for-hire into original titles.
Blackbird's president Rory McGuire compares their approach to Gearbox Software, focusing on creative team satisfaction. They prioritize projects that excite their team, like the PS5 port of Minecraft. Alex Delamaire highlights the appeal of exdev work for its variety and learning opportunities. Balancing different projects and client expectations is key, requiring humility and effective communication.
External development offers Blackbird the chance to explore new genres and established brands, like their recent remasters of Warcraft 1 and 2. While challenges exist in balancing diverse projects and meeting client demands, the studio's experience and adaptability drive their success in the external development landscape.
