Codemasters Acquires Project CARS Developer Slightly Mad Studios

Big news for motorsports games, as Codemasters has brought a new studio into the fold: Slightly Mad Studios. Developer of the popular Project CARS series, SMS will add its sim racing knowledge to the already rather impressive teams already under the Codemasters umbrella.

Ian Bell will remain CEO of Slightly Mad Studios, the company he founded, and the studio will bring with it the Project CARS franchise, as well as “an unannounced Hollywood blockbuster title.” Intriguing.

“We are delighted to bring such an incredible racing game developer to the Codemasters family, and this unequivocally establishes us as a global powerhouse in the development of racing titles,” said Frank Sagnier, Chief Executive Officer at
Codemasters. “We share the same passion and vision and our new partnership will accelerate our growth. With more streaming services coming to market and the next generation of games consoles due in 2020, this is the perfect time for Codemasters
to take its next step.”

“Our combined racing games portfolio is the envy of the industry and this new partnership will enable us to learn from each other, share resources and take advantage of emerging platforms and technology,” said Ian Bell, Founder and Chief
Executive at Slightly Mad Studios. “My team is excited to be joining Codemasters and we can’t wait to forge a relationship based on creativity, passion and the desire to create new racing experiences that excite and delight our communities.”

This is huge news for the racing genre. With the Formula One, DiRT and GRID series already going strong at Codemasters, you have to wonder what part Project CARS will play in its new home.