Behaviour Interactive Expands Across the Atlantic: A New Era Unfolds

Behaviour Interactive recently acquired SockMonkey Studios, marking its first foray into the UK market. The Canadian developer and publisher, renowned for its multiplayer survival horror game Dead By Daylight, has been in operation for over three decades. However, it wasn't until last year that the company ventured out of its home market by acquiring Midwinter Entertainment from Improbable. With its second acquisition, Behaviour Interactive has hinted at further expansion plans for Europe. The company's CEO, Remi Racine, explains that the primary reason for focusing on Western Europe is the cultural similarity to Montreal, where Behaviour is based. "We're trying to replicate what Montreal is all about," he says. The acquisition of SockMonkey Studios brings additional expertise and knowledge to Behaviour, with Racine noting that "making games today needs a lot of people." SockMonkey's co-founder, Bob Makin, reveals that the studio wasn't actively seeking a buyer but was approached by several potential suitors over the past three years. However, after engaging with Behaviour, the two companies discovered a natural synergy. "There's just something about Behaviour, something about their culture and their way of working, they're like a big SockMonkey," Makin remarks. Following the acquisition, SockMonkey has been rebranded as Behaviour UK North, signifying its integration into the Behaviour family. The studio aims to increase its headcount to around 100 employees and will work on a mix of co-development and work-for-hire projects, including franchises like Fallout, Halo, and Assassin's Creed. Behaviour Interactive's executive vice president, Wayne Meazza, emphasizes the company's patient approach to growth, stating that they will take their time to find the right talent. The success of Dead By Daylight has been a turning point for Behaviour, enabling the company to explore self-publishing and attract work from prominent publishers. Racine notes that the company will not rely solely on self-publishing and will continue to evaluate opportunities on a case-by-case basis. Behaviour is currently focusing on positioning its new multiplayer shooter, Meet Your Maker, for success, with a defined plan for post-launch support and in-game events. The company's growth plan will primarily focus on Montreal and Toronto, with potential acquisitions in Europe and Canada. While Behaviour isn't ready to disclose details about its upcoming project, Racine hints that it will leverage the expertise acquired from Midwinter Entertainment. The possibility of establishing a 'UK South' studio remains an option, with Meazza and Racine leaving the door open for future opportunities.