Game Giant Atari Expands Portfolio with Acquisition

Atari's Infogrames Label Acquires Surgeon Simulator Franchise

Atari, through its revived Infogrames label, has announced the acquisition of the popular Surgeon Simulator franchise from tinyBuild Inc. Infogrames, described by Atari as a publishing arm for titles outside its core brand, is experiencing a resurgence after a period of dormancy. This acquisition marks a significant step in Atari's ongoing effort to rebuild its presence in the gaming industry.

Infogrames, a name synonymous with game development and distribution in the 80s and 90s (responsible for titles like Alone in the Dark, Backyard Baseball, and the Putt-Putt series), was rebranded under Atari in 2003. After Atari's bankruptcy in 2013, the company reorganized, incorporating Infogrames into its current structure. This latest acquisition follows Atari's recent purchase of Totally Reliable Delivery Service, further bolstering Infogrames' portfolio.

Infogrames plans to expand the Surgeon Simulator franchise through new digital and physical releases, along with potential sequels and collections. Geoffroy Châteauvieux, Infogrames Manager, highlighted the franchise's enduring appeal, noting its unique gameplay and dark humor as key factors in the acquisition.

The Surgeon Simulator series, originally developed by Bossa Studios, centers around the hilariously inept surgeon, Nigel Burke, and his various surgical misadventures. Beginning with operations on a patient named "Bob," the game's quirky gameplay has spanned various platforms, including PC, Mac, iOS, Android, PS4, and Nintendo Switch, with VR versions also available. While a direct sequel hasn't been announced by Bossa Studios since Surgeon Simulator 2 (2020/2021), Atari's acquisition suggests future installments are a strong possibility. This acquisition follows tinyBuild's 2022 purchase of several Bossa Studios IPs, including Surgeon Simulator and I Am Bread.