NetEase Games establishes Austin-based T-Minus Zero Entertainment to develop online multiplayer-focus sci-fi action game

NetEase Games has announced the establishment of T-Minus Zero Entertainment, a new studio headquartered in Austin, Texas led by Rich Vogel. It is currently developing an online multiplayer-focused third-person action title set in a science-fiction universe.

Vogel is an experienced game developer who has launched a number of studios, including Sony Online Entertainment Austin, Bioware Austin, and Bethesda Game Studios Austin. He has led development on multiplayer and service-based games such as Meridian 59, Ultima Online, Star Wars: Galaxies, and Star Wars: The Old Republic.

While T-Minus Zero Entertainment’s main studio will be located in Austin, Texas, the studio has a remote-first approach with several roles available.

“Our studio’s mission is to create epic, immersive worlds where players from around the globe can play together, forming vibrant and passionate communities,” said T-Minus Zero Entertainment studio head Rich Vogel in a press release. “The team at NetEase Games shares our vision to create memorable and meaningful experiences, and they have made it a priority to provide the support and creative freedom to allow us to make our dream a reality.”

Other industry veterans joining the T-Minus Zero Entertainment team include:

• Game director Mark Tucker, who brings 22 years of design experience on titles such as Fallout 76 (design director), DOOM, and Crimson Alliance (design lead)
• Art director Jeff Dobson, who brings 26 years of experience on Star Wars The Old Republic, Dragon Age Inquisition, Mass Effect Andromeda, and Anthem
• Operations and production vice president Scott Malone, who brings 10 years of production experience on Fallout 76, DOOM, and The Elder Scrolls Online

NetEase Games president of global investments and partnerships Simon Zhu added, “T-Minus Zero Entertainment has been built with an inspiring roster of talented veterans with unparalleled industry knowledge and the passion to create wholly original gaming experiences. NetEase Games strongly believes in empowering creators with the ability to build games that will inspire players and evolve over time with its community. We can’t wait to share more of what Rich and the team are working on, and we’ll make every effort to help them grow.”