S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 was recognized as the most anticipated game
The Ukrainian gaming community was recently taken aback by the news of a change in ownership at GSC Game World, the studio behind the iconic Cossacks and S.T.A.L.K.E.R. games. According to information from the I.T. News portal, based on YouControl data, Maksym Krippa has replaced Sergey Grigorovich as the new beneficiary of GSC Game World. In March 2023, Vitaliy Volochai, co-founder of Maincast, confirmed that businessman Maksym Krippa had invested in GSC Game World.
In response to widespread speculation, the portal sought official clarification from GSC Game World on the deal’s specifics, including its status, the roles of Sergey and Yevgeny Grigorovich, along with potential shifts in intellectual property rights, could significantly influence the company’s strategic direction and business plans.
Maksym Tkachenko, GSC Game World’s Community Manager, officially confirmed that the changes in GSC Game World’s ownership (GSC Ukraine LLC) and its affiliated companies were recorded in Ukrainian state registers on September 22 and in Czech registers on September 27. This transition resulted from a private equity agreement that remains confidential under a strict non-disclosure agreement (NDA). Details such as the investment amount, ownership structure, and investor stakes are considered trade secrets protected by NDAs.
An NDA is a legal document that safeguards sensitive information by restricting its disclosure to unauthorized parties. This agreement is essential for parties sharing crucial data to prevent it from leaking to competitors or the public. It outlines the non-disclosure obligations and the penalties for violating these terms.
GSC Game World began its collaboration with Maksym Krippa in 2020, meticulously evaluating the potential benefits and risks. The final decision to transfer ownership was made with the understanding that significant changes to the company were not planned. Sergey and Yevgeny Grigorovich maintain their positions, with Yevgeny continuing as CEO.
About Maksym Krippa
Investor and entrepreneur Maksym Krippa
Maksym Krippa, the new owner of GSC Game World, is a renowned Ukrainian entrepreneur with extensive experience in various IT business sectors. His ventures span game development companies, startups, and esports.
In the fourth quarter of 2018, Krippa became the majority owner of NAVI, acquiring it from the previous owner, Oleksandr Kokhanovskyi. Krippa’s substantial investments have propelled NAVI to new heights, solidifying its status as one of the leading teams in esports.
Beyond esports, Krippa is also heavily involved in real estate and development projects. His deep understanding of IT company development has enabled him to manage and elevate businesses to new levels of success. As the new owner of GSC Game World, Krippa plans to leverage his experience and knowledge to further the company’s growth while preserving its traditions and enhancing its market position.
GSC Game World Studio Overview
GSC Game World, founded in 1995 by Sergey Grigorovich, has made its mark in the gaming industry, especially with the renowned Cossacks and S.T.A.L.K.E.R. game series. Grigorovich, as the founder and CEO, was key in the creation of the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series. His leadership and creative direction were vital in shaping the series’ concept, guiding the development team, and making important decisions regarding game design, storyline, and technology. His vision brought to life the distinctive S.T.A.L.K.E.R. universe, blending a post-apocalyptic atmosphere with a rich narrative that has captivated players globally.
The series kicked off with S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl in 2007, followed by Clear Sky and Call of Pripyat in the subsequent years. By August 2021, the series had sold over 15 million copies.
Work on S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 began in 2010 but faced numerous setbacks. However, development restarted in 2018, driven by fresh investments after Кріппа’s involvement. Fans are now eagerly anticipating the release of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2, expected in early 2024.
Future Prospects for GSC Game World
As GSC Game World celebrates its 28th anniversary, the studio remains committed to creating compelling Ukrainian games, a mission that has guided it since its inception.
The gaming industry is highly dynamic and demands significant investment to stay competitive. Such investments allow developers to innovate, create new intellectual properties, and explore uncharted territories, the details of which remain under wraps but promise to be intriguing.
GSC Game World continues to play a crucial role in Ukrainian pop culture and the country’s cyber history. The company has reaffirmed its commitment to Ukrainian values and has relocated many of its Kyiv-based employees to its new headquarters in Prague.
