Montreal Becomes Home to Wizards of the Coast’s New Studio
The world of Dungeons & Dragons is expanding its footprint in North America with a new video game studio set to open in Montreal. The project, led by Wizards of the Coast, would create about 200 direct jobs across development, art, quality assurance, and ancillary roles. The arrival signals more than just a new office; it marks a strategic investment in a growing belief that Montreal remains a premier hub for game creation.
Early Recruitment Underway
Dan Ayoub, head of the company’s Montreal office, highlighted the city’s deep talent pool as a decisive factor in choosing Montreal. He noted that recruitment has already begun, signaling a swift ramp-up as the studio begins building its team.
Why Montreal? A Talent Pool That Attracts Global Players
Montreal International’s president and CEO, Stéphane Paquet, described the move as a strong indicator of the city’s appeal to the game industry. He pointed out that Montreal hosts about 250 studios and nearly 15,000 jobs, with several large-budget productions developed here. The new studio would leverage that ecosystem, drawing on a robust network of engineers, artists, writers, and producers who thrive in the local tech and creative sectors.
Industry Context: A Slowdown, Yet a Resilient Market
The announcement comes amid a recent slowdown in the video game and information technology sectors. Despite this backdrop, officials argue that Montreal’s enduring strengths—talented graduates, established studios, and favorable studio space—continue to attract international publishers and developers. The city’s capacity to scale projects and its proximity to North American markets are often cited as enduring advantages.
Impact on the Local Ecosystem
With a new Wizards of the Coast studio, Montreal could see spillover benefits beyond direct employment. Local studios may gain opportunities through collaboration, outsourcing, and shared tech pipelines, reinforcing Montreal’s reputation as a magnet for high-budget, ambitious game projects. The ecosystem’s diversity—from indie teams to AAA-scale productions—helps sustain a steady stream of talent and innovation.
Looking Ahead: What this Means for Dungeons & Dragons in Video Games
The expansion signals a renewed focus on Dungeons & Dragons within interactive media, potentially expanding the franchise’s reach through new gameplay experiences. For players, it raises expectations for fresh storytelling, richer visuals, and more immersive worlds, crafted by a team rooted in Montreal’s dynamic creative economy.
