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SYSTEM ERA SOFTWORKS

Acquired by

DEVOLVER DIGITAL

UNITED STATES Software EV [1m USD - 100m USD] 11/2023

Target

SYSTEM ERA SOFTWORKS

Acquirer

DEVOLVER DIGITAL

Context

Devolver Digital has completed the 100% acquisition of System Era Softworks, Inc. The transaction involves a multi-part consideration structure including upfront cash and shares, along with deferred and performance-based earn-out components, reflecting the firm's focus on long-term alignment with the target's management team. The acquisition serves as a strategic pivot for Devolver to extend its footprint beyond the traditional premium indie market. By integrating System Era, Devolver gains access to proven "Expandable Game" expertise and proprietary live-operations technology. This infrastructure is expected to be leveraged across future internal and external titles, reducing development costs and broadening the studio's technical capabilities in GaaS-based models. Furthermore, the acquisition strengthens Devolver's presence in the Pacific Northwest, a critical hub for technical talent.

SYSTEM ERA SOFTWORKS, which reported an EBITDA margin of LOGIN in 2022, is valued in this transaction at an EV/EBITDA multiple of LOGIN, representing a LOGIN discount to the average currently observed in the TMT (Tech, Media, Telecom) sector (13.6x).

Note that this data is based on contribution from our growing community, composed of M&A and Private Equity professionals, and has been verified by our team to ensure its accuracy.

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Target

System Era Softworks is a specialized video game development studio known for its expertise in building and maintaining high-retention, "Expandable Game" titles. Based in Seattle and founded by industry veterans with backgrounds in major AAA franchises, the firm has established a distinctive competency in creating sandbox, community-driven experiences. The studio’s core value proposition lies in its ability to combine traditional game design with sophisticated, proprietary live-operations technology, allowing for consistent, long-term player engagement and recurring content delivery. The studio operates a highly disciplined development model that emphasizes iterative updates and stable game-as-a-service (GaaS) architecture. By successfully managing the full lifecycle of its intellectual property, the team demonstrates a rare ability to sustain and grow player communities years after initial release.

Ent. Value

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Equity Value

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Multiples Analysis

EV / Revenue

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EV / EBITDA

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EV / EBIT

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Historical Financials (EUR)

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EBITDA
EBIT
2022
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2021
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Other operations with SYSTEM ERA SOFTWORKS

REFERENCES

Authors: mynth contributor (mynth data is contributed by M&A / PE professionals and systematically cross-verified with private deal documents and official press releases).

Acquirer: devolver digital