Activision acquires Fantastic Four developer Beenox

Canadian developer Beenox Studios, creator of the Shrek 2, Tony Hawk's Underground 2 and forthcoming Fantastic Four games, has been acquired by publishing partner Activision.

The publisher said the move will boost its internal development capabilities and help to establish a foothold in Quebec, home to one of the fastest-growing development communities in North America.

"Beenox's extensive porting background will be a key component of our console transition strategy by allowing us to focus our resources on next-generation technologies while continuing to develop games for current-generation systems," said Activision president Kathy Vrabeck.

"Quebec's expanding innovative talent pool will provide Activision with future growth opportunities."

Beenox CEO Dee Brown added: "This acquisition is a perfect fit for both companies. In particular, it will allow Beenox to continue to develop high-quality titles based on well-established brands."

The deal sees Beenox becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary of Activision, and the management team and key employees have already signed new contracts with the publisher.

The first title to be published under the terms of the agreement will be Fantastic Four for multiple console platforms and PC, due out in conjunction with the Twentieth Century Fox feature film this summer.

Beenox is the third developer Activision has acquired this year, following deals to secure Vicarious Visions in January and Toys for Bob earlier this month.