Beanbag Studios formed

Two game development veterans have announced the formation of Beanbag Studios, Inc.

The founders of the new studios include Steve Bergenholtz and Gary Corriveau, two individuals with a combined 30 years of development experience.

In 1998, Bergenholtz founded Sandbox Studios, the company responsible for numerous console and handheld titles including Shrek, The Emperor's New Groove, Disney's Dinosaur, ESPN NHL Hockey and Matchbox Emergency Patrol. He sold the company in 2001.

Beanbag Studios is based in Plano, Texas and London, Ontario, Canada. The company has acquired a number of global videogame licenses and has four casual games in production for release this year.

"Our developers are working with several high profile properties, which will allow us to hit the ground running with a series of impressive launch games," Bergenholtz said. "We're looking forward to releasing a range of first-rate titles for the growing number of casual game fans around the world."

Beanbag anticipates completing over 20 original and licensed titles at its internal studio through 2008 while continuing to grow its development capacity to include cell phone and console titles. In addition, the company is seeking a partnership deal to assist with the distribution of its games.