2K sets up new studio for its next sports game franchise
Publisher 2K has launched a new AAA studio, Small Axe Studios, tasked with building the company's next major sports franchise, with hints pointing toward a soccer title.
Video game publisher 2K has announced the creation of a new AAA development studio called Small Axe Studios. The announcement came via a LinkedIn post stating the studio's goal is to build 2K's next blockbuster sports franchise.
The post does not specify which sport the upcoming game will cover, but it included an image resembling a mockup of a soccer club badge, suggesting the studio may be working on a soccer title that could compete with EA Sports FC.
Staff with FIFA experience
According to the Small Axe website, several senior staff members previously worked on EA's FIFA series, the franchise now known as EA Sports FC. Among them is studio head Aaron McHardy, who previously led that very franchise at EA.
Grew out of 2K Sports Lab
Small Axe Studios originated from 2K Sports Lab, a project 2K first announced in 2023. Whatever the new title turns out to be, it will join 2K's existing sports game lineup, which includes basketball series NBA 2K, wrestling series WWE 2K, and golf series PGA Tour 2K.
