Avalanche to open new studio in New York

Avalanche Studios has announced plans to open a new studio in New York this autumn.

The studio will be headed up by ex-Atari and Activision veteran David Grijns, with the US team to focus on development on a "large-scale, online-enabled original IP for next-generation consoles, handhelds and PC."

The first project, AAA focused, is being aimed for a 2014 release. Development will be headed up by ex-Mindspark creative director Roland Lesterlin.

At least 50 people will employed within its first two years. Interviews will begin with Avalanche's management and HR teams in Manhattan at the end of the month.

"While most developers and publishers are focused on expanding (or contracting) their operations in over-crowded industry centers such as Los Angeles, San Francisco or Seattle, New York provides us with a diverse talent pool from which to create our next big console title," said Avalanche founder Christofer Sundberg.

"It doesn’t hurt that it also happens to be the greatest city on earth."