Former Saints Row Developers from Volition Formed New Co-Development Studio Shapeshifter Games 

A group of former developers from Saints Row studio Volition have joined forces and formed a new company called Shapeshifter Games.

Shapeshifter Games is positioning itself as a co-development studio, that assists other studios with game development and is based in Illinois.

The company’s LinkedIn profile reads “Founded by veteran developers from Volition, Shapeshifter Games was created to partner with world class developers and publishers on the creation of AAA games.”

“Shapeshifter draws upon deep experience in open-world and character action games earned while working on some of the industry’s most beloved franchises.”

The new Shapeshifter Games studio is led by studio director Rob Loftus, who was the principal producer on Saints Row.

“It’s been five months since the closure of Volition, but I’m grateful to post that a group of us have re-formed as Shapeshifter Games,” Loftus posted on LinkedIn.

“The industry climate remains tough and I know I’m fortunate to reconnect with colleagues and turn the page on a new adventure.”

“I’m hopeful for more groups like us and for the brighter days ahead.”

Joining him is Brian Traficante, who worked at Volition for a decade and was the creative director of 2022’s Saints Row reboot.

He will be remaining as creative director at Shapeshifter Games and wrote the following on his LinkedIn:

“I’m excited to share that I am a part of Shapeshifter Games, a new Co-Dev studio supporting AAA game development.”

“Teaming up with former Volition developers, we’re on an exciting journey! Working with talented, familiar faces fills me with joy.”

“Our shared passion and experience strengthen our partnerships and sparks creativity. I’m grateful for the chance to work with such an inspiring team as we begin this new chapter.”

As part of Embracer Group’s restructuring program, Volition was shut down “effective immediately” back in August 2023.

Volition was best known for the Descent and Red Faction games in its early years before the Saints Row series became its most successful franchise.

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