Ashurst, BBA/Fjeldco, and LOGOS advised on Google’s investment in the makers of popular MMORPG, EVE Online, Fenris Creations (previously known as CCP Games) and Google DeepMind’s AI research partnership with Fenris Creations.

Google has made a minority investment in Fenris Creations, as part of a management-led acquisition of the gaming company by a consortium of investors.

As part of the transaction, Google DeepMind also entered into an AI research partnership with Fenris Creations focused on advancing understanding of intelligence in complex, dynamic systems using the online role-playing game EVE Online as a research environment.

Following completion of the transaction, CCP Games will be rebranded as Fenris Creations while continuing to operate from Reykjavík, Iceland under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer Hilmar Veigar Pétursson.

Ashurst advised Google on its minority investment in Fenris Creations and separately advised Google DeepMind on its AI research partnership with Fenris Creations.

The Ashurst team advising on the equity investment was led by Tech M&A Partner Chris Grey, supported by Senior Associates Daniel Johnstone and Louise Chan, Associate Rebekah Oakes and Trainee Arabella Vickers.

The Ashurst team advising on the partnership agreement was led by Digital Economy Partner Amanda Ludlow, supported by Counsel Aaron Cole, Senior Associates William Barrow and Tom Brookes, and Associate Nilesh Ray.

Partner Laura Ho and Associate Neil Moran advised on finance aspects of the transaction, while Partner Ruth Buchanan led on employment advice.

BBA/Fjeldco advised on Icelandic law matters in connection with the transaction.

LOGOS provided legal counsel to the management team throughout the acquisition process. The engagement was led by Fannar Freyr Ívarsson and Þórólfur Jónsson, with Vilhjálmur Herrera Þórisson and Sóldís Rós Símonardóttir also contributing to the matter.