In a deal that is perhaps a little complicated, Starbreeze Studios have acquired the full rights to Payday - the game that has seen the company go from strength to strength. They have issued new B shares to the value of $30 million (USD) to pay for the deal, and 505 Games will continue to get the same revenue share of the console versions, while Starbreeze now get the full income of the more successful Steam version. Furthermore, 505 Games will take in 33% of the net revenue of Payday 3 capped at $40 million.
"Payday is very close to my heart, and has laid the foundation for Starbreeze success in recent years. We're very excited to bring our heisters home to the safe house," said Bo Andersson Klint, Starbreeze CEO. "To start with, we believe in the continued success of Payday 2 and will support it for at least another 18 months continuing expanding the game."
The press release is also the first official mention of Payday 3, and in a way the deal means Starbreeze/Overkill have committed to creating a sequel at some point, even if it by no means suggests that a sequel is already under way.
Through owner Digital Bros., 505 Games, already held a minority share in Starbreeze Studios.
In other Starbreeze and Overkill news, the developer/publisher is preparing to release the 100th update for Payday 2 on Steam this Thursday. Full details aren't available just yet, but a couple of things.
Community Grenades - anyone in the Payday community can use explosives going forward.
Skills - After a lengthy beta they will be live in the actual game with this update.
In the update following 100, the black market will be freed up, meaning all safes will be free to open up - a move that will no doubt delight critics of what was perceived as a pay-to-win component.
Starbreeze and Overkill also released this teaser ahead of E3, teasing what we can only presume is a new character for your crew.