Epic Storyworlds Launches Roblox Game Development Studio

Epic Storyworlds, founded by Steve Couture and Ken Faier, has launched Freeground, an online experience studio focused on fan engagement through Roblox.

Freeground provides a full range of services, including research and development, content production, marketing, post-launch operations and monetization strategies. The company’s first collaboration, with Falcon’s Beyond, will feature an entertainment destination with a theme park and games based on the Katmandu IP.

The new studio, based in Quebec City, will utilize co-founder Couture’s past experience in browser-based virtual worlds. He was previously CEO of Frima, a virtual worlds developer for kids behind such projects as Bearville, Littlest Pet Shop Online and Skylander’s Universe. He will serve as the CEO of Freeground.

Freeground’s team includes Laurent Mercure as studio director. Mercure brings a background in game marketing and community management.

“As Roblox continues to rapidly cement itself as an integral part of kids’ lives, it’s essential that brand IP owners—across toys, video games, clothing, music, TV content, events and theme parks—who are looking to engage with the younger generation start thinking about establishing a presence on the platform,” said Couture. “With the launch of Freeground, we’re building upon the existing strength of the Epic Story group of companies and its capacity to develop global and creative franchises by offering companies a chance to capitalize on the significant opportunities that Roblox presents, while ensuring the players are front and center of everything we create. We’re honored to have Falcon’s Beyond as our first collaborator and to be creating a Roblox experience that will propel the idea of a virtual theme park to the next level.”

Faier, founder and president of Epic Story Media, added, “With the addition of Freeground, the Epic Story group of companies becomes the most complete 360-degree offering for kids’ brand management, handling linear content, games, licensing, merchandising and now, the creation and nurturing of virtual worlds under one roof. Freeground’s unique approach will be focused on not only building highly engaging Roblox experiences but also drawing on Steve and Laurent’s extensive expertise in community management to ignite fan engagement for the long run.”

“We are thoroughly enjoying our collaboration with the Epic Story and Freeground teams in adapting the brands, experiences and attractions found at our brick-and-mortar entertainment destinations into a vibrant and vivacious Roblox world tailored for that audience,” said Jason Ambler, president of digital media at Falcon’s Beyond. “We believe this Roblox experience will be unlike anything players have seen before, offering much to do, build and explore, as well as reasons to come back again and again. Much like a traditional theme park, our Roblox world will continue to expand with new branded lands, experiences and games and other features for players to enjoy.”