Certain Affinity, the largest independent video game developer in Austin, today announced that it will be opening a second development location in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Certain Affinity has a proven track-record developing innovative, triple-A action games, including both original titles and co-development of games in blockbuster franchises like “Call of Duty,” “Halo,”, “DOOM,” and “Left 4 Dead.” Certain Affinity’s new studio will be opening in February in the Fashion District in the heart of downtown Toronto. To select the right location for its new office, Certain Affinity worked closely with Toronto Global, a team of experienced business advisors assisting global businesses to expand into the Toronto Region.
Certain Affinity recently celebrated its 12th anniversary; during its history it has developed or co-developed 29 products across 12 different franchises, with more than 100 million units sold. The new Toronto location will support the Austin studio currently developing an ambitious original title as well as an original IP game, “Last Expedition,” which is a sci-fi co-op FPS.
“Toronto is becoming a hub for game development with its progressive and multicultural environment and its thriving design and technical talent pool,” said Max Hoberman, Certain Affinity’s President and Founder. “We have built a company not only with top talent and benefits, but also with one of the game industry’s most inclusive and diverse cultures, and we look forward to bringing this mindset to our new Toronto studio and to being a positive member of the Toronto business community.”
The new studio, which is expected to ramp up to 60 developers later this year, will be a fully integrated extension of the Austin office, which currently has more than 170 full-time employees. Historically, Certain Affinity has been known for development and co-development on other studios’ titles. While maintaining its core co-development business, the company has recently shifted its focus to lead game development, with a model of developing games as a service, available online and continuously updated with new features and content.
“The Toronto Region is drawing the attention of the world for its emerging digital media and game development sectors, its diverse and welcoming community and dynamic cultural scene,” said Toronto Mayor John Tory. “I’m thrilled that Certain Affinity will call Toronto home, create jobs for our talented residents and contribute to our reputation as a global centre for innovation, creativity and economic growth. Welcome to the Toronto Region!”
Certain Affinity is seeking a variety of skilled and passionate team members to join the company in Austin and Toronto, including artists, engineers, designers, producers, and more. Anyone interested in joining this growing independent AAA game developer can see a list of current job openings at certainaffinity.com/careers.
