Cloud Imperium Games
Cloud Imperium Games is a video game developer known for the crowd-funded title Star Citizen and the story-driven single-player game Squadron 42. The company operates in open development, with offices in Los Angeles, Austin, Frankfurt, and Manchester, and acquired the Montreal-based studio Turbulent in 2023.
Company Overview
Cloud Imperium Games is known for developing Star Citizen, a crowd-funded title that combines classic space sim gameplay with visual excellence. The company also develops Squadron 42, a single-player game set within the Star Citizen universe. Cloud Imperium Games operates under the model of 'open development,' which emphasizes transparency and engagement with players. The company has its main offices in Los Angeles, Austin, Frankfurt, and Manchester.
Star Citizen Development
Star Citizen is a flagship project by Cloud Imperium Games and is a significant achievement in crowd-funding. The game integrates players at every development stage, setting new standards for transparency and player engagement within the gaming industry. The game features a blend of classic space simulation elements and state-of-the-art visuals.
Squadron 42
Squadron 42 is a story-driven, single-player game in the Star Citizen universe. Designed to offer a Hollywood-caliber experience, it aims to deliver a narrative-focused space adventure. The game leverages the same universe as Star Citizen but focuses on a more structured and guided gameplay experience.
Expansion and Studios
Cloud Imperium Games has expanded significantly, with new offices in Los Angeles, Austin, Frankfurt, and Manchester. Notably, the Manchester studio, opened in 2022, is projected to create more than 700 jobs by 2023 and over 1,000 in the next five years. The company also signed a 10-year lease in Frankfurt for approximately 3000 sqm of rental space in the ONE mixed-use development.
Financial Performance
In 2022, Cloud Imperium Games reported a 30% increase in total income compared to the previous year, with revenue reaching $114 million, a 32% rise. Costs also increased by 18% to $116.5 million, with capital expenditures amounting to $12.9 million, primarily for new offices in Manchester and Frankfurt. The headcount grew by 112 (15%) to 860 worldwide by the end of 2022, with a total headcount surpassing 1,100 by the end of 2023.