NetEase Games is restructuring its international portfolio, granting independence to Anchor Point Studios, a Barcelona-based game development team. This move continues a trend of NetEase scaling back investments in several international gaming companies.
The decision follows a series of studio closures and sales over the past few years, including Ouka Studios, the developer of Visions of Mana, which was shuttered in 2024. NetEase Montréal, Bad Brain Game Studios and Fantastic Pixel Castle have also been impacted by these changes. T-Minus Zero, though, has reportedly survived the cuts and is now operating independently, while Mattel is now the sole owner of Mattel163, a venture previously established in partnership with NetEase.
Anchor Point Studios was founded in 2022 and is led by Paul Ehreth, formerly a leader at Smilegate Barcelona and a design lead at Remedy Entertainment, contributing to projects like Alan Wake 2 and Control. The studio maintains a primary location in Barcelona, Spain, with a satellite office in Seattle.
Ehreth announced the transition to independence on LinkedIn, describing it as “an important milestone” for the studio.
“This represents a significant change for us, but one we are embracing with optimism, clarity, and excitement for what lies ahead,” Ehreth wrote. The studio is now initiating discussions with potential investors and partners who share its vision for the future.
The restructuring reflects a broader trend of game developers seeking independence and alternative funding models in a rapidly evolving industry. Anchor Point Studios is now positioned to pursue its projects with greater autonomy, seeking new collaborations to fuel its growth.
