FASA Studio

FASA Studio

FASA Studio was a video game development company known for creating several popular game franchises. It was originally a part of FASA Corporation, a company that specialized in tabletop games. FASA Studio became a subsidiary of Microsoft Game Studios and was instrumental in developing games for the Xbox platform.

History

FASA Studio was founded as part of the FASA Corporation, which was established in 1980 by Jordan Weisman and L. Ross Babcock III. The studio initially focused on developing video games based on FASA's tabletop game properties, such as BattleTech and Shadowrun.

In 1999, FASA Interactive was acquired by Microsoft, and the studio was renamed FASA Studio. This acquisition allowed FASA Studio to leverage Microsoft's resources to develop games for the Xbox console.

Notable Games

FASA Studio is best known for its work on the following game franchises:

MechWarrior

The MechWarrior series is a line of video games based on the BattleTech universe. Players control giant robots called "mechs" and engage in combat missions. The series is known for its detailed simulation of mech combat and strategic gameplay.

Crimson Skies

Crimson Skies is an alternate history game set in a world where air travel is the primary mode of transportation. Players pilot aircraft in aerial dogfights and complete various missions. The game is praised for its engaging story and innovative flight mechanics.

Shadowrun

Shadowrun is a cyberpunk-themed game that combines elements of fantasy and science fiction. The game features a unique blend of magic and technology, and players can choose from various character classes to complete missions in a dystopian future.

Closure

FASA Studio was closed by Microsoft in 2007. The closure was part of a broader restructuring within Microsoft Game Studios. Despite its closure, the legacy of FASA Studio lives on through its influential game franchises, which continue to have a dedicated fan base.

Legacy

The games developed by FASA Studio have left a lasting impact on the gaming industry. The MechWarrior and Crimson Skies franchises, in particular, are remembered for their innovative gameplay and storytelling. Many of the original developers from FASA Studio have gone on to work on other successful projects in the gaming industry.

See Also

• Microsoft Game Studios
• BattleTech
• Cyberpunk

References

• "FASA Studio." Microsoft Game Studios. Accessed October 2023.
• "The History of FASA Corporation." FASA Corporation Archives. Accessed October 2023.