Bethesda owner's new MMO

ZeniMax Media, parent company of Oblivion studio Bethesda Softworks, has announced the formation of a new development outfit focused on the MMO market, GamesIndustry.biz is reporting.

ZeniMax Online Studios will be headed by Matt Firor, a ten year veteran of online games and one of the founders of Dark Age of Camelot developer Mythic Entertainment.

"This could not be a more perfect opportunity for me," said Firor.

"I am extremely impressed with ZeniMax and Bethesda Softworks management - their development philosophy closely matches my own, with an emphasis on quality, innovation, and craftsmanship. I am eager to get back to what I love - the development of cutting edge MMOG titles."

As well as Bethesda Softworks, ZeniMax Media owns Vir2l Studios, an outfit dedicated to handheld and mobile game development.

"We are excited about the opportunities we have in the online gaming space and felt that Matt is the perfect person to lead this effort," added James Leder, COO of ZeniMax Media.

"There are relatively few people who have the actual experience and knowledge that comes from having created a successful MMO, and Matt is the real deal. We feel fortunate to have him join our group."