Gearbox announces new studio in Montreal

Borderlands developer Gearbox is launching a new studio in Montreal, aptly dubbed Gearbox Studio Montreal.

Gearbox is investing CAD $200 million in the new studio, which will employ around 250 devs. The company’s total headcount across North America will then exceed 850.

Sébastien Caisse, Ph.D and Pierre-André Déry will be co-leading the team.

“Following our successful experience establishing Gearbox Studio Quebec, our investment in a new studio in Montreal [in 2015] creates an exciting new prospect for Montreal-based talent — whether they wish to work on existing Gearbox franchises, or help with the creation of new, original ideas,” Gearbox boss Randy Pitchford said. “I know the incredible local game development community will welcome Gearbox Studio Montreal and its balance between major studio muscle and local team culture as a needed addition to the city.”

The new studio is expected to work on the Borderlands franchise and create new IP described as “groundbreaking entertainment.”

Montreal is home to one of North America’s largest game development hubs, with big brands like Ubisoft, EA, and Bethesda all present in the city.