Frontier Developments, the Cambridge‑based creator behind hit series such as Planet Coaster, Planet Zoo and Jurassic World Evolution, has officially signed a partnership with The Walt Disney Company to produce a brand‑new video game that will draw on Disney’s extensive portfolio of intellectual property. Under the terms of the deal, Frontier will act as the sole financier, developer and publisher of the title, applying the studio’s deep expertise in the creative‑management simulation (CMS) genre to bring a fresh Disney experience to life.
The announcement was made by Frontier’s chief executive officer, Jo Cooke, who described the collaboration as a natural extension of the company’s long‑term vision. “We are thrilled to announce this partnership with Disney, which further strengthens our clearly defined strategy of building and nurturing world‑class creative‑management simulation franchises,” Cooke said. “Our goal with this project is to connect a passionate community of creators with one of the world’s most beloved and iconic brands, and I can’t wait to see what our talented teams will deliver with this extraordinary opportunity.” Frontier’s decision to focus almost exclusively on CMS games is a relatively recent strategic shift. In 2023, the studio announced that it would concentrate its resources on the genre after recognizing that these titles generate “stronger and more predictable returns” compared with other types of releases.
The move has paid off handsomely. In the most recent financial year, Frontier reported its second‑highest annual revenue on record, with sales climbing 16 % to £104.8 million. Operating profit surged 44 % to £19 million, surpassing the previous peak of £15.9 million recorded in fiscal year 2029.
The company attributes this impressive growth to its “strategic focus” on CMS games, which now account for roughly 90 % of its total revenue. The new Disney‑themed project will be the latest addition to Frontier’s growing portfolio of CMS titles.
While the studio has not disclosed which specific Disney properties will be featured, the partnership opens the door to a wealth of possibilities—from classic animated characters to modern Marvel and Star Wars universes. By leveraging its proven engine and design philosophy, Frontier intends to give players the tools to design, manage, and share their own Disney‑inspired experiences, whether that means building a themed amusement park, curating a magical kingdom, or orchestrating a cinematic adventure. Frontier’s track record suggests that the upcoming game will emphasize deep customization, robust community features, and long‑term content support.
In previous releases, the company has demonstrated a commitment to post‑launch updates, downloadable content, and user‑generated creations that keep players engaged for years. The studio’s “one CMS title per year” policy underscores its dedication to delivering a steady stream of high‑quality, evergreen franchises that can evolve alongside their audiences. Beyond the immediate excitement of the Disney collaboration, the deal also signals Frontier’s broader ambition to become a leading publisher in the simulation space. The studio is simultaneously developing an unannounced Planet‑branded game based on its own intellectual property, further expanding the ecosystem of titles that share a common focus on creativity, management, and player expression.
By handling both development and publishing in‑house, Frontier retains full control over the creative direction, marketing, and monetisation strategies for each project. Industry analysts have noted that the partnership could be a win‑win for both parties. Disney gains a proven partner capable of translating its rich storytelling heritage into interactive experiences that resonate with a dedicated fan base, while Frontier benefits from the global recognition and cross‑generational appeal of Disney’s brands.
The collaboration also aligns with a broader trend in the gaming industry toward licensing agreements that allow developers to tap into established franchises, reducing the risk associated with launching entirely new IPs. Looking ahead, Frontier’s leadership remains optimistic about the company’s growth trajectory. The firm’s strategic emphasis on sustainable, long‑term development—rather than chasing short‑term hits—has positioned it to weather market fluctuations and maintain a loyal community of players.
By committing to a pipeline of yearly CMS releases, Frontier aims to ensure a predictable revenue stream while continually innovating within the genre. In summary, Frontier Developments’ new Disney‑based game represents a significant milestone for the studio. It blends the studio’s proven CMS expertise with the timeless allure of Disney’s characters and worlds, promising a fresh, immersive experience for both simulation enthusiasts and Disney fans alike.
With solid financial performance, a clear strategic roadmap, and a partnership that leverages the strengths of two industry powerhouses, Frontier is poised to deliver another standout title that could further cement its reputation as a leader in creative‑management simulation gaming.