Disney Relaunches Climax Racing As Black Rock

Officials from Disney Interactive Studios have announced the relaunch of the company's earlier acquired British development studio Climax Racing under the new name Black Rock Studio. Black Rock is based in Brighton, England, and employs more than 100 video game artists, programmers and designers. The studio was acquired in late 2006 from Climax Group, and was described at the time as being of both strategic and geographical importance, with the developer becoming Disney Interactive Studios' third internal studio and its first in Europe. Climax Racing had previously worked on racing titles such as those in the Moto GP and ATV Offroad Fury franchises. According to Disney Interactive officials, Black Rock Studio will continue this focus on developing racing titles, though no projects have yet been announced. “The new name symbolizes the next chapter in our development of outstanding games for the next generation and beyond,” commented Black Rock Studio's co-founder and general manager Tony Beckwith of the studio's new branding. “Being part of the creative family of Disney Interactive Studios and having access to the breadth and scope of the resources of the Walt Disney Company will enhance our ability to create award-winning titles that inspire and challenge gamers throughout the world.”