Cryptic Studios forms advisory board

City of Heroes team Cryptic Studios has formed an advisory board to help spearhead the company's expansion in the entertainment market.

Five veterans of the videogame and financial markets have taken positions on the board, from the development, financial, retail and publisher communities.

Jeff Braun, co-founder of Maxis, id Software co-owner Kevin Cloud and former Activision CFO Ed Roffman are joining the team, along with UBS Investment Bank's David Higley.

Also joining the board is Strategic Marketing Partners, North America's largest independent sales and marketing force in the PC and videogame sector, who's clients include LucasArts, SoE, Disney Interactive and Sega, amongst others.

"We are very fortunate to have such a high-calibre group of industry experts to advise Cryptic Studios as we continue our mission to deliver the best possible online gaming experience," said Michael Lewis, president of Cryptic Studios.

"The knowledge and relationships held by this group are extremely beneficial to the continued growth of our studio in the years ahead."

Cryptic Studios is currently working on Marvel Universe Online for Xbox 360 and Windows Vista, as well as continuing development with the City of Heroes franchise.