Keywords has acquired Certain Affinity, the co-developer of the Halo series

Keywords Studios has expanded its portfolio by acquiring the American firm Certain Affinity, though financial specifics remain confidential.

Established in 2006 by ex-Bungie employees, Certain Affinity has built a reputation for assisting in the development of leading AAA games. Their expertise has been applied to popular titles such as Hogwarts Legacy, Gotham Knights, and several Call of Duty and Halo games, notably including Halo Infinite.

The company's leadership will remain in place, with founder and CEO Max Hoberman and president and COO Paul Sams continuing to guide a team of 180 staff located in the US and Canada.

This acquisition awaits final agreements, incorporating both an upfront cash payment sourced from Keywords' existing credit resources and an incentive-based earn-out related to Certain Affinity's future success.

Hoberman remarked on the transaction, highlighting the stability and supportive environment Keywords offers. He praised Keywords' respect for their culture and talent, emphasizing their commitment to investing in growth.

Hoberman and Sams anticipate collaborating with Keywords to mindfully grow their co-development work, improve their leadership in development, and boost their Create division.

In April, the company reduced its workforce by 10%, letting go of 25 employees due to a broader industry slowdown and hesitations from third-party investors.

Keywords CEO Bertrand Bodson expressed excitement at adding Certain Affinity to their group, complimenting the studio's knowledge and reputation, especially enhancing their US and Canadian operations within the Create division.

This acquisition follows Keywords' earlier purchase in August of UK-based Wushu Studios, marking their second acquisition in 2024.

Juno Capital Partners acted as financial advisors to Certain Affinity for this acquisition.