French games company Microids has set up a brand new studio in Lyon.

The new outpost is opening this month and will be called – you guessed it – Microids Studio Lyon. The venture is being headed up by industry veteran David Chomard, who has previously worked at the likes of Atari, Infrogrames and Bigpoint.

“Since Microids had a 64% turnover increase between 2019 and 2020, it appeared logical for us to create a new studio while strengthening the existing projects and investments with the long time partner studios," Microids boss Stéphane Longeard said.

"We are delighted to entrust David Chomard, former Atari employee, with the reins of this new studio. His experience and expertise will be crucial.”

Chomard added: “I am delighted to once again work with Microids and leading this new studio. The production of a video game is a true adventure and I can’t wait to share more about the upcoming games developed by Microids Studio Lyon.”

Microids recently signed a publishing deal for four new games based on the Smurfs IP.