Ex-developers from ZeniMax’s canceled Project Blackbird have formed a new independent studio with a cheeky name and serious ambitions: Sackbird Studios.
The studio’s website immediately signals their irreverent spirit—MS Paint artwork adorns the homepage, and social media icons playfully show a bird leaving the nest. But behind the humor lies a thoughtful approach to game development that directly addresses the instability plaguing AAA studios.
Some of their new studio values the have stated it will be Employee Own and have creative Control of their IPs.
It will be interesting to see what they come up with and I do hope that they can have sustainabel development.
I see the churn of the big AAA industry having new studio startups form those affected, hope this lasts for them and I hope some of those Project Blackbird Ideas will make it through this time.
What makes Sackbird Studios different
- Employee-owned, self-funded: Multi-year runway.
- Small, senior team: Fewer than ten developers at founding; built for focus and quality.
- Creative control: No mandate to chase trends; decisions driven by craft and player experience.
- Sustainable development: Process designed to respect people and protect the work.
About Sackbird Studios
Founded in September 2025, Sackbird Studios is an independent, employee-owned game studio formed by veteran developers behind Elder Scrolls Online and the canceled Project Blackbird. With internal funding and full creative control, the studio is focused on crafting bold, character-driven experiences free from corporate compromises.
Learn more at sackbirdstudios.com and follow along on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/sackbirdstudios.
Reference:
Devs Behind Canceled Xbox MMO Blackbird Game Launch A New Studio With A Great Name – GameSpot
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