2K establishes AAA sports developer Small Axe Studios
2K has launched Small Axe Studios, an AAA development team based in Vancouver, Canada. Read more
2K has created Small Axe Studios, an AAA sports development team situated in Vancouver, Canada. Guided by Aaron McHardy, the studio is creating 2K's upcoming sports franchise and hiring for key roles. McHardy oversees the studio as head of operations and executive producer. The leadership team comprises Gary Paterson (design), Tom Pan (operations), Mike Thompson (engineering), Brent Breedveld (animation), Karl Gryc (art), John Cruz (technical art), and Trisha MacWan (HR).
McHardy's prior leadership at EA Sports FIFA for 15 years precedes his current role. The team's origins trace back to 2K Sports Lab, a 2023 initiative focusing on sports interactive entertainment research and development. 2K describes Small Axe Studios as merging startup enthusiasm with 2K's scale to pioneer sports video game innovation.
The studio capitalizes on 2K's expertise with franchises like NBA 2K, WWE 2K, and PGA Tour 2K, positioning itself for ambitious challenges. McHardy expressed pride in the assembled team and excitement for future endeavors, emphasizing the studio's mission to conquer industry hurdles with innovation and determination.
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