MUMBAI: Disney Interactive Studios has re-named its development studio Climax Racing as Black Rock Studio.

Black Rock is Disney Interactive Studios’ first video game development studio in Europe, making it both strategically and geographically significant in accessing the deep pool of development talent throughout the UK and across Europe. The team at Black Rock will continue to focus on developing triple-A racing titles.

Black Rock Studio co-founder and general manager Tony Beckwith said, “The new name symbolises the next chapter in our development of outstanding games for the next generation and beyond. Being part of the creative family of Disney Interactive Studios and having access to the breadth and scope of the resources of the Walt Disney Company will enhance our ability to create award-winning titles that inspire and challenge gamers throughout the world.”

“Black Rock has distinguished itself as one of the world’s premier racing studios and well deserves its position as a center of creative excellence for racing. The studio has proven to be a perfect addition for us and with the re-naming to Black Rock starts the next phase of our journey together,” said Disney Interactive Studios executive vice president and general manager Graham Hopper.

Under its former name, Black Rock Studio has developed racing games, including Moto GP and ATV Offroad Fury. The studio and its products have won or been nominated for dozens of awards, including winning four IGN “Best of Show” awards at E3 2006. Black Rock is based in Brighton, England, and employs more than 100 video game artists, programmers and designers.

Disney Interactive Studios also operates development studios in Vancouver, British Columbia (Propaganda Games) and Salt Lake City, Utah (Avalanche Software and Fall Line Studio).

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