Metro’s 4A has been bought out and is working on a new IP, Metro multiplayer

4A, the developer behind the Metro games, has been acquired by Embracer Group via its Saber Interactive subsidiary.

The Ukrainian developer – which also has a studio in Malta – was purchased for an upfront price of $36 million, it announced on Thursday.

Within the Embracer Group, 4A Games will operate as an independent studio under Saber Interactive, the World War Z developer which itself was acquired earlier this year.

4A and Saber are currently collaborating on a new Metro project which Embracer says combines “the AAA production values of 4A Games, combined engine and technology know-how and Saber’s experience on multiplayer and live operations.”

4A has also started development on a new AAA IP that “leverages its decade of experience on developing the Metro series,” Embracer said.

Saber CEO Matthew Karch said in a prepared statement: “With the acquisition of 4A Games, Saber Interactive is locking-up one of the best indie studios in the industry with the potential and capacity to take on another AAA project and are also internalizing the value of existing and future IPs into the Group.

“Saber solidifies its position as a leader in the CIS and Ukrainian game developer market. Combining our technology and capabilities with 4A Games presents tremendous opportunity for growth and expansion.”

4A CEO Dean Sharpe added: “Embracer Group and Saber Interactive are the perfect partners for 4A Games and for our next phase of growth. Together we will continue to build on the Metro franchise and will focus on bringing a multiplayer experience to our fanbase.

“We look forward to building a new and even more ambitious AAA IP in the near future.”

The 4A purchase was one of seven game acquisitions announced by Embracer on Thursday. The other additions include Insurgency studio New World Interactive, plus Palindrome Interactive, Rare Earth Games, Vermila Studios, Pow Wow and DECA Games.

Metro author Dmitry Glukhovsky recently revealed plans to release a new entry in the post-apocalyptic FPS series.