Navigating Meta’s Studio Acquisitions: A Whirlwind Tale
So, let’s talk about Meta. Between 2019 and 2022, they went on a crazy shopping spree—nine VR studios nabbed. It’s like they were collecting them like Pokémon cards or something. But what actually happened to these studios? Some soared, others nosedived. Typical corporate roulette, right?
Oh! Quick update: This piece was originally penned in October 2024. We’re still all ears, tracking Meta’s latest moves, like summer interns chasing rumors.
Meta’s Acquisition Antics
Getting acquired by Meta’s like boarding a rocket ship. You get cash, access to iconic IPs, and more stability than a dance-floor on a Sunday morning. But say goodbye to your wild side, ’cause you need to keep your prized games from crashing.
Nine studios in their pocket, each hitting different marks post-acquisition. A few turned heads with fresh creations. Others—let’s just say, they emailed it in.
Beat Games – Swinging Sabers, Bought in 2019
Beat Games? Yeah, they made Beat Saber. Meta picked them up to milk that cash cow while promising they’d keep their indie vibes. Since then, drops of new tunes have arrived. Multiplayer’s a biggie. But where are those custom sabers we were teased? Yeah, we’re still waiting.
Fundamental change? None. If I didn’t know better, I’d think they’re stuck in a time loop. Six years now, and they’re still just slashing away. Oh! In 2025, they bailed on PSVR/2. No updates, nada. But they promised this “next big leap for Beat Saber.” Sure, guys. We’ll hold our breath.
Core crew? Gone. Founders Jan, Jaroslav, and Vladimir bounced out. It’s Meta’s show now.
Post-acquisition Grade: B–
Sanzaru Games – Norse Myths & Beyond, Acquired 2020
When 2020 hit, Meta swagged into Sanzaru’s office and said, “You’re coming with us.” They wanted more big VR hits, building on Asgard’s Wrath.
They dropped Asgard’s Wrath 2 on Quest platforms, cramming it into less space than my closet. People dug it, calling it a visual treat. But it took four years and now it’s flying solo. They say something’s cooking, but… well, we haven’t smelled it yet.
Post-acquisition Grade: B+
Ready at Dawn – Space Adventures, Bought in 2020, Shuttered 2024
Ready at Dawn created dream zero-G worlds with Lone Echo. Meta jumped in during 2020, pushing for more. Lone Echo II made its debut, but Echo VR was left in the PC pastures.
Fans cried when Echo VR got the axe. They did hint at new stuff, but in 2024, Meta pulled the plug. Goodbye, dreams of floating free.
Post-acquisition Grade: F+ (A for Effort?)
Downpour Interactive – Tactical Times, Bought 2021, Closed 2025
Onward was a staple for military sim fans. Downpour turned heads in VR circles. Meta scooped them up in 2021. Quest launches were shaky. Improvements rolled in with chunky updates, though. But storm clouds gathered. Layoffs swept in, including founder Dante Buckley’s exit.
By June 2025, Meta closed shop, moving the remaining folks elsewhere. Onward lingers, servers still buzzing but hanging by a thread.
Post-acquisition Grade: D+
Stick around for Part 2 to dive deeper into Meta’s rollercoaster acquisitions. More beyond the curtain!
