H1Z1 developers Daybreak Games have recently received a controlling investment from holding company, NantWorks. The partnership will see the creation of NantG Mobile, which will see mobile versions of H1Z1 and EverQuest. As part of NantWorks investment Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, CEO and Chairman of NantWorks and Owner and Executive Chairman of the Los Angeles Times, will join Daybreak’s board of directors.
Dr Soon-Shiong said: “I am delighted that our software capabilities at NantWorks, together with the creative expertise and infrastructure at NantStudio – which includes our low latency fibre network, will help accelerate the development of the platform at Daybreak, a company with a history dating back to its origins as Sony Online Entertainment. Their achievements in the development of gaming technology have contributed greatly to this emerging field of virtual sports and we view this medium as an important media engagement engine.”
Jason Epstein, Chairman of the Board and Owner of Daybreak Games said: “Daybreak Games is pleased to have NantWorks as our investment partner to support and accelerate the growth of our company. Working with NantWorks, NantStudio and Dr. Soon-Shiong will allow us to maintain our cutting-edge development in the video game industry and to benefit from Nant’s technological expertise and reach as a resource.”
Along with the partnership, NantWorks is planning construction of an LA Times Center which will include event space, production studio and an esports arena. With Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong involvement, the Los Angeles Times is also set to add esports coverage on its sports section.
Daybreak, in partnership with Twin Galaxies, announced a weekly pro league for competitive H1Z1 to take place live in Las Vegas. We spoke with Twin Galaxies Co-Chairman Jace Hall about the league last May.
Esports Insider says: Daybreak Games has been in quite a slump lately with the fall of H1Z1 thanks to the likes of PUBG and Fortnite. While the investment is a shining light for the company, this feels like a last ditch effort to stay relevant by expanding to mobile gaming.