Two former lead employees from The Initiative have launched a new studio for 2K Games. Previously, both members worked on the cancelled Perfect Dark title for Xbox.
The Initiative was an ambitious new first-party studio for Microsoft/Xbox and led by former Crystal Dynamics head, Darrell Gallagher. It brought in many notable figures from studios like Rockstar, Santa Monica Studios, and Naughty Dog. The studio’s first title was announced to be a remake/reboot of Perfect Dark. Unfortunately, earlier this year, the game was cancelled and The Initiative was shut down. Now, two former employees, including Darrell himself, are heading up a new studio for 2K Games.
Former Perfect Dark Leads from The Initiative Launch New Studio for 2K Games

In a LinkedIn post, former studio head of The Initiative, Darrell Gallagher, announced that he’ll be joining a new studio for 2K Games. He’ll join as SVP, Studio Head of the yet-to-be-named studio. His message can be found below:
“I’m excited to share that I will be joining 2K as SVP, Studio Head, where I’ll be building a new studio and leading an ambitious opportunity unlike anything I’ve taken on before,” says Gallagher. “I’ve spent my career believing in what’s possible when great people come together with a bold vision. I can’t wait to get started with the exceptional team at 2K!“
Furthermore, Brian Horton, former Creative Director at The Initiative for Perfect Dark, announced on LinkedIn that he will join Darrell as VP Head of Creative. Prior to The Initiative, Horton served as Creative Director for Marvel’s Spider-Man and the upcoming Marvel’s Wolverine. No information was shared regarding any other talent joining or what the game may be. Either way, it is a pretty big snag and may give fans a peek as to what stories The Initiative would have told if not disbanded.
What do you think of 2K getting employees from The Initiative for a new studio? Excited to see what they do? What do you hope to see? Leave a comment below and on the official Insider Gaming Discord!
For more 2K, check out the coverage on GTA 6’s delay and Borderlands 4’s okay sales. Make sure to subscribe to the weekly newsletter.



