Epic Games recently announced its acquisition of AQUIRIS, a Brazil-based game studio. This move follows an investment made by Epic Games in AQUIRIS in early 2022. The acquisition not only expands Epic Games’ global presence, but also marks the establishment of its first studio in Latin America, Epic Games Brasil.
Founded in 2007 by Amilton Diesel, Mauricio Longoni, and Israel Mendes, AQUIRIS has grown into one of the leading game development studios in Latin America. Headquartered in Porto Alegre, the AQUIRIS team has gained international recognition for its award-winning titles such as Wonderbox and the Horizon Chase franchise. The developers at AQUIRIS will now work with Epic Games to create groundbreaking content and social experiences within Fortnite.
Mauricio Longoni, the CEO of AQUIRIS and newly appointed studio director of Epic Games Brasil, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition. He noted that joining Epic Games allows AQUIRIS to build upon their successes in developing memorable games such as Wonderbox, Horizon Chase 2, and Looney Tunes World of Mayhem. Longoni is confident that AQUIRIS’ experience using Unreal Engine will significantly contribute to the future of Fortnite.
AQUIRIS has a rich history of creating games for Cartoon Network, including CN Superstar Soccer and The Great Prank War. The studio has also developed original IPs like the first-person shooter Ballistic Overkill, Horizon Chase World Tour, Horizon Chase Turbo, and Looney Tunes: World of Mayhem. AQUIRIS continually strives to create unique gaming experiences for its players through discipline and hard work.
Alain Tascan, Executive Vice President of Game Development at Epic Games, welcomed the AQUIRIS team, praising their innovative approach to game development and their global appeal. With the creation of Epic Games Brasil, Tascan looks forward to tapping into the immense talent the region has to offer and solidifying Epic Games’ presence in Latin America.
AQUIRIS’ journey began in a 30 square meter office, developing virtual reality and advergames before the release of the first iPhone. The team later expanded to include Raphael Baldi, Kely Costa, and Sandro Manfredini, who joined the executive board as partners. Today, AQUIRIS stands as a significant chapter in the history of Brazilian video games and a testament to the potential of Latin American game development.
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