NetEase is continuing to reshape its international gaming portfolio, granting independence to Anchor Point Studios, a relatively new studio specializing in action-adventure titles. This move marks the latest in a series of shifts for the Chinese gaming giant, which has been spinning out or shuttering several Western-based studios over the past year. The decision reflects a broader trend of NetEase reassessing its international investments and focusing its resources.
Anchor Point Studios, founded in 2022, is led by Paul Ehreth, a veteran of the gaming industry with previous leadership roles at Smilegate Barcelona and as lead designer at Remedy Entertainment, contributing to critically acclaimed titles like Alan Wake 2 and Control. The studio maintains offices in both Barcelona, Spain, and Seattle, Washington. This strategic positioning allows Anchor Point to tap into talent pools in both Europe and North America.
The transition to an independent studio was announced by Ehreth via a LinkedIn post on February 16, 2026, where he described the move as an “important milestone” for the team. “This is a significant change for us, but one that we’re approaching with optimism, clarity, and excitement for what’s ahead,” Ehreth wrote. The studio is now actively seeking new investors and partners to support the development of its debut project, aiming to secure financing that aligns with its creative ambitions.
NetEase initially launched Anchor Point Studios in April 2023, aiming to expand its presence in the Western gaming market. Yet, the company has since undergone a period of restructuring, leading to the closure or spin-off of several other studios, including Ouka Studios (known for Visions of Mana), NetEase Montréal, Bad Brain Game Studios, and Fantastic Pixel Castle. T-Minus Zero Entertainment has as well transitioned to an independent entity, while Mattel now fully owns Mattel163, a venture previously co-owned with NetEase. GamesIndustry.biz reports that these changes signal a strategic shift within NetEase.
NetEase’s Western Studio Restructuring
The move to grant Anchor Point Studios independence is part of a larger pattern of NetEase divesting from or restructuring its Western gaming operations. In 2024, the company announced the closure of Ouka Studios, the team behind the anticipated Visions of Mana. This Week in Video Games details how NetEase has been streamlining its international presence, focusing on core strengths and potentially shifting investment strategies.
Anchor Point’s Future and Industry Impact
Anchor Point Studios’ focus remains on developing action-adventure games for both console and PC platforms. The studio had previously outlined plans to hire up to 100 developers across Europe and North America, but the impact of the independence on those hiring plans remains to be seen. Ehreth expressed gratitude to NetEase for its initial support, stating that the company’s backing was instrumental in building a “world-class team” and laying the foundation for the studio’s future success. Game Developer highlights the uncertainty surrounding the future of those employees as the studio transitions.
The studio is now opening up “conversations with prospective investors and partners who share our vision for the future of this project and the passionate team behind it,” according to Ehreth’s LinkedIn post. This suggests a proactive approach to securing funding and establishing new collaborations as an independent entity.
Financial Context and NetEase’s Performance
This restructuring occurs as NetEase reported a 6.9% increase in overall revenue to RMB 112.6 billion ($16.1 billion) for 2025, according to reports cited by Instant Gaming News. Despite the positive financial results, the company appears to be streamlining its operations and focusing on core competencies, leading to the spin-offs and closures of several Western studios.
The independence of Anchor Point Studios represents a pivotal moment for the team, offering the opportunity to refine its creative vision and forge new partnerships. The studio’s success will likely depend on its ability to secure funding and navigate the competitive landscape of the action-adventure genre. The gaming industry will be watching closely to see how Anchor Point Studios evolves as an independent developer and what impact this shift will have on NetEase’s overall strategy.
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