Visual Concepts, which makes iconic video game franchise NBA 2K, is acquiring the game division of Austin-based HookBang, with plans for a new Austin-based studio.
Visual Concepts plans to turn the HookBang division into a new studio called Visual Concepts Austin, and employ hundreds of developers to support NBA 2K and its expanding publishing business.
“NBA 2K is a vital part of 2K’s publishing business and the larger video game industry, as well as a fixture in global pop culture lexicon,” Greg Thomas, president of Visual Concepts, said in a written statement. “We have made many investments in NBA 2K over the years, each of which has helped us reach new heights. HookBang has partnered with us on NBA 2K for the past couple of years, and we’re pleased to welcome its talented team to the Visual Concepts family.”
