Chinese tech giant NetEase opens first U.S. studio, Jackalope Games

Eastern tech giant sets up shop in the west

China’s NetEase Games has established a new studio in North America called Jackalope Games. Situated in Austin, Texas, it represents the technology giant’s first-ever, fully-funded, U.S.-based internal studio.

Jackalope Games, which will focus on the development of PC and mobile titles, will be helmed by industry veteran Jack Emmert, who has previously worked as CEO of Cryptic Studios as well as the head of game development at Daybreak Game Company. Emmert’s resume includes multiple MMO titles, including Neverwinter, Star Trek Online, DC Universe Online, and City of Heroes.

“NetEase Games is the best possible place for me and my team to thrive,” writes Emmert of his new studio. “We share the same passion — to create engaging online universes for gamers worldwide. NetEase Games is providing the support and resources needed to build a great studio and great games.”

Once established, Jackalope Games will run as an independent studio under NetEase, focusing on self-proposed projects. NetEase currently works as a partner for Blizzard Entertainment, and is responsible for the marketing and distribution of titles such as Overwatch and StarCraft II in China, but with Jackalope Games, the conglomerate is making its first full foray into implementing development on U.S. soil.