Atari Announces Another Acquisition

Atari's Infogrames subsidiary has acquired the Surgeon Simulator franchise from tinyBuild Inc., marking another significant acquisition for the revitalized gaming company. Infogrames, a label revived by Atari, focuses on publishing titles outside Atari's core lineup. This move reflects Atari's broader strategy of leveraging legacy brands and expanding its portfolio.

Infogrames, renowned for its '80s and '90s game development and distribution, aims to expand its reach through digital and physical distribution channels, as well as developing new entries and sequels in acquired franchises. The label's history includes titles like Alone in the Dark (reimagined recently by Pieces Interactive), the Backyard Baseball and Putt-Putt series, and Sonic Advance games. Following a rebranding to Atari in 2003 and subsequent bankruptcy, the modern-day Atari was formed in 2014, incorporating Atari, Inc., Atari Interactive, and Infogrames. The company has since engaged in multiple acquisitions to bolster its position in the gaming industry.

The Surgeon Simulator acquisition is a key part of this strategy. Infogrames Manager Geoffroy Châteauvieux highlighted the franchise's enduring popularity and unique appeal, calling it a "rare opportunity." This acquisition follows the April 2024 acquisition of Totally Reliable Delivery Service, further contributing to Infogrames' resurgence.

Atari Acquires Surgeon Simulator

Surgeon Simulator, originally released in 2013, features the hilariously inept surgeon Nigel Burke and his patient "Bob." Its blend of dark humor and unconventional gameplay quickly gained popularity. Bossa Studios, the original developer, expanded the franchise to iOS, Android, PS4, and VR platforms, eventually releasing Surgeon Simulator 2 in 2020 (PC) and 2021 (Xbox). The future of the franchise, however, remains uncertain following Bossa Studios' staff reduction in late 2023. tinyBuild, which acquired several Bossa Studios IPs in 2022, including Surgeon Simulator and I Am Bread, facilitated the sale to Atari.