Lisbon Emerges as a Powerhouse for Gaming Innovation and Storytelling

FunPlus, the renowned creator of hit mobile games like "State of Survival" and "King of Avalon," has announced the opening of its new creative hub, Studio Ellipsis, in Lisbon, Portugal. This strategic move aims to expand the company's intellectual property (IP) across various entertainment platforms, signaling a significant shift in the gaming industry's landscape.

Pioneering a New Era of Immersive Experiences

Expanding Horizons Beyond Mobile-First Games

Under the leadership of FunPlus' Alexandre Amancio, the newly established Studio Ellipsis is poised to push the boundaries of traditional gaming. Amancio, who previously founded the Montreal-based game studio Reflector Entertainment and served as the creative director on Ubisoft's acclaimed "Assassin's Creed" franchise, brings a wealth of experience and a visionary approach to the table.The studio's primary focus is to transition FunPlus' portfolio from its mobile-first, free-to-play roots into the realms of PC and console-focused titles. This strategic shift aligns with the company's ambition to explore new mediums and approaches to game development, blending genres and experimenting with innovative storytelling techniques.

Embracing Transmedia Storytelling

At the heart of Studio Ellipsis' mission is the desire to create "entertainment experiences that cater to the evolving expectations of modern audiences." This translates to a strong emphasis on transmedia storytelling, where FunPlus' existing IPs will be brought to life across multiple platforms, inviting fans to delve deeper into the lore, characters, and narratives that define these virtual worlds.The studio's first project, "Sea of Conquest: Cradle of the Gods," is a comic series based on the strategy game "Sea of Conquest: Pirate War." This cross-medium approach is a testament to FunPlus' commitment to expanding its IP and engaging audiences in new and immersive ways.

Fostering a Vibrant Ecosystem in Lisbon

The decision to establish Studio Ellipsis in Lisbon was a strategic one, driven by the Portuguese capital's burgeoning potential as a creative and technological hub. Recognized for its dynamic environment for game development and digital entertainment, Lisbon has emerged as a prime destination for innovative companies seeking to tap into a diverse talent pool and a thriving ecosystem.Over the next three years, FunPlus plans to create more than 50 jobs at Studio Ellipsis, with a focus on attracting both local professionals and international talent. This investment in Lisbon's gaming industry aligns with the city's broader efforts to position itself as a global hub for innovation and disruptive technologies.

Collaborating with Local Institutions

As part of its launch, Studio Ellipsis is actively collaborating with local universities and organizations, such as the APVP (Associação de Produtores de Videojogos Portugueses) and The Gaming Hub by Unicorn Factory Lisboa. These partnerships aim to foster local talent and support the development of the gaming economy in Lisbon, further solidifying the city's reputation as a thriving hub for digital entertainment.

Embracing the Future of Gaming and Storytelling

The establishment of Studio Ellipsis marks a significant milestone in FunPlus' journey to become a global powerhouse in the entertainment industry. By expanding beyond its roots in the strategy genre and exploring new mediums, the company is positioning itself to meet the evolving demands of modern audiences, who crave immersive storytelling and cross-platform experiences.As FunPlus chief business officer Chris Petrovic aptly stated, "The launch of Studio Ellipsis marks a pivotal moment in FunPlus' journey to become a global powerhouse in entertainment, extending far beyond our roots in the strategy genre." This bold move not only showcases FunPlus' commitment to innovation but also underscores Lisbon's growing prominence as a hub for gaming and digital entertainment.