Publisher Paradox Interactive has announced it has acquired Academia: School Simulator. This is the school builder-management by Philippines-based Squeaky Wheel, which has ceased active game development activities.
Academia is also mostly known for an art style that looks rather reminiscent of Prison Architect. This happens to be so due to both games sharing the same artist: former CEO Ryan Sumo. Now both games are united, in that both titles were acquired by Paradox long after its launch.
“I’m excited about this new step for Academia,” says Sumo in the announcement post. “It took us nine months to launch it in Early Access, and since its release in 2017, we’ve been overwhelmed by the positive reviews and the support from the community.
“Academia: School Simulator will always hold a special place in the hearts of myself and my former coworkers at Squeaky Wheel.”
Paradox has an interesting method when it comes to acquisitions compared to other game publishers, in which they are more likely to acquire IPs to continue support or make sequels, rather than acquiring the development team themselves.
The announcement coincides with Paradox holding a weekend sale, which many of its management titles, including Academia, is on discount.