About Appeal Studios
Appeal Studios is a Franco-Belgian video game development studio founded in 1995 by Yves Grolet, Franck Sauer, and Yann Robert. Best known as the creators of Outcast, one of the first open-world video games, they are now part of THQ Nordic (Embracer Group).
Company History
- Founded: 1995 in Belgium
- Original Team: Previously worked on coin-op games at Art & Magic
- Acquired by: THQ Nordic/Embracer Group
- Location: 14 Audent Boulevard (4th floor), 6000 Charleroi, Belgium
Notable Games
Outcast Franchise
- Outcast (1999) - One of the first open-world games, GameSpot "Adventure Game of the Year"
- Outcast: Second Contact (2017) - Remastered edition
- Outcast: A New Beginning (2024) - Long-awaited sequel
Technical Innovation
Appeal pioneered several technologies:
- Voxel-based graphics - Alternative to Direct3D acceleration
- GAIA - Advanced AI system
- Paradise - Graphics/sound rendering API
Specializations
- Open-world game development
- Action-adventure games
- Technical innovation
- Franchise development
Parent Company
THQ Nordic (Embracer Group) - Acquired through THQ Nordic GmbH and Amplifier Game Invest AB
Why Choose Appeal Studios
- Open-world pioneers with Outcast legacy
- Technical innovation in graphics and AI
- THQ Nordic backing with major resources
- Belgian development talent
- Proven franchise management