THQ Nordic

THQ Nordic is an Austrian video game publisher and production group headquartered in Vienna. Founded in 2011 as Nordic Games GmbH by Lars Wingefors and partners, the company combines international publishing with the acquisition, revitalization and preservation of established gaming franchises. It operates as part of Embracer Group and coordinates development through a network of distinct subsidiary studios.

Its publishing work spans PC, PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo platforms, covering both physical retail and digital distribution. Alongside production management and creative direction, the company handles international marketing, public relations, community management, localization coordination and platform relationships. Its commercial activities also include intellectual property licensing, brand stewardship and franchise merchandising.

Publishing and production

The company oversees projects across action adventures, role-playing games, strategy, racing and licensed entertainment. Its publishing catalogue includes Biomutant, Last Train Home, Outcast: A New Beginning, Alone in the Dark and South Park: Snow Day!, alongside releases in the Darksiders, Destroy All Humans!, SpongeBob SquarePants and Wreckfest franchises.

THQ Nordic's role combines commercial oversight with internal production and external development coordination. Development is primarily carried out by separately operated studios, while the publishing organization supports projects through production, distribution and market release. Its distribution coverage extends across Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, Latin America and the Middle East and Africa.

Company history

The business began following the acquisition of assets and intellectual properties from the insolvent Austrian publisher JoWooD Entertainment. In April 2013, Nordic Games acquired substantial intellectual property assets from the bankruptcy auction of THQ Inc., including Darksiders, Red Faction and MX vs. ATV. The group subsequently acquired the THQ trademark in 2014.

The Austrian company adopted the THQ Nordic name in August 2016. Its Swedish parent also initially used THQ Nordic branding before becoming Embracer Group in 2019, distinguishing the holding company from the Austrian publishing and production business.