Keywords Studios Acquires US Game Developer Certain Affinity

Keywords Studios, an entity known for providing creative and technological solutions to the gaming and entertainment sectors, has announced the acquisition of Certain Affinity, a US-based game development studio, for an undisclosed sum. Certain Affinity, founded in 2006 by former Bungie employees, has gained notoriety for its co-development work on AAA video game titles.

The Austin, Texas-based studio, with an additional branch in Toronto, Ontario, has contributed to high-profile projects such as ‘Hogwarts Legacy’ and ‘Gotham Knights,’ alongside multiplayer titans like ‘Call of Duty‘ and ‘Halo,’ including the widely acclaimed title ‘Halo Infinite.’

Pivotal management figures such as Max Hoberman, the founder and CEO, and Paul Sams, president and COO, will continue to lead the studio’s operations, now part of the Keywords Group. The team currently oversees a staff of approximately 180 employees across the US and Canada.

The acquisition, pending customary closing conditions, consists of an upfront cash payment enabled by Keywords’ revolving credit facility, alongside a performance-based earn-out component. “At this most difficult time in the market, we’re thrilled to provide stability and a supportive home for our team,” Hoberman said in a press statement.

Despite industry challenges—including a 10% staff reduction in April due to a slowdown in project funding—Certain Affinity has remained poised for growth. Hoberman emphasized Keywords’ respect for their culture and willingness to invest in the studio’s development capabilities as crucial to their collaborative future.

Keywords CEO Bertrand Bodson expressed optimism about the acquisition, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Certain Affinity to the Keywords Group. They bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and expertise to our Create division.” Keywords expects the acquisition to strengthen its presence in the US and Canadian markets and support the growth of its existing divisions.