Epic Games buys Harmonix

Game publisher and developer Epic Games announced today the acquisition of Harmonix, the company known for the creation of the Guitar Hero franchise.

Each company released their own statement today via their websites stating that Harmonix will continue supporting current titles such as Rock Band 4. The Dance Central creator will also work with Epic “to develop musical journeys and gameplay for Fortnite.”

“Music is already bringing millions of people together in Fortnite, from our emotes to global concerts and events,” stated Alain Tascan, Vice President of Game Development at Epic Games. “Together with the Harmonix team we will transform how players experience music, going from passive listeners to active participants.”

“Now, we’ll be working with Epic to once again challenge expectations as we bring our unique brand of musical gaming experiences to the Metaverse, and we couldn’t be more excited,” says the Harmonix post.

Epic Games has been in an acquisition spree this year, purchasing RAD Game Tools, Tonic Games Group (owner of Mediatonic, known for Fall Guys), ArtStation, Sketchfab and Capturing Reality. In 2019, Epic also acquired Psyonix (developer of Rocket League).

[Sources]: Harmonix: Harmonix is joining the Epic Games family! – [Archive]. Epic Games: Harmonix Joins Epic Games to Create Immersive Music Experiences – [Archive].