2K just announced today that they have opened up a new game development studio under their publishing umbrella. The new studio is called Cloud Chamber and will have not one but two different locations for their operations. The team will operate both out of 2K's San Francisco Bay Area HQ in Novato, CA in addition to a new location in Montreal, Quebec. This marks the first Canadian office for 2K.
The other big surprise today is the fact that Cloud Chamber has been tasked with making the next iteration in the BioShock franchise. The next BioShock is planned to be in development "for the next several years."
Cloud Chamber is being led by Kelley Gilmore, a 22-year industry veteran that is credited with shipping over 40 games. Gilmore is also the "first woman in 2K history to launch and lead a development studio." Over the years, Gilmore has worked with Firaxis Games on franchises like Sid Meier's Civilization and XCOM. A bulk of her time will be spent at the Novato location.
As is common with new studios, Cloud Chamber is hiring for a number of positions. At present, there are 36 roles that need to be filled. Perhaps you'll find a home in one of them?
“We founded Cloud Chamber to create yet-to-be-discovered worlds – and their stories within – that push the boundaries of what is possible in the video game medium,†said Kelley Gilmore, Global Studio Head, Cloud Chamber. “Our team believes in the beauty and strength of diversity, in both the makeup of the studio and the nature of its thinking. We are a deeply experienced group of game makers, including many responsible for BioShock’s principal creation, advancement and longstanding notoriety, and honored to be part of the 2K family as stewards of this iconic franchise.â€
Gilmore has tapped Ken Schachter to be Cloud Chamber’s Studio Manager in Montréal. An executive with extensive experience in development, production, technology and creative roles, Schachter will also be an ambassador for both the studio and 2K in establishing a significant Company presence in Montréal. Prior to joining 2K, Schachter served as General Manager for Zynga in Toronto, as well as founded independent game developer and publisher Trapdoor. He has also held notable positions with companies such as Gameloft, Autodesk and more.
Gilmore has tapped Ken Schachter to be Cloud Chamber’s Studio Manager in Montréal. An executive with extensive experience in development, production, technology and creative roles, Schachter will also be an ambassador for both the studio and 2K in establishing a significant Company presence in Montréal. Prior to joining 2K, Schachter served as General Manager for Zynga in Toronto, as well as founded independent game developer and publisher Trapdoor. He has also held notable positions with companies such as Gameloft, Autodesk and more.
