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ZeniMax Media Inc.

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Perhaps you’ve heard of The Elder Scrolls or Fallout. These famous games link back to ZeniMax Media. ZeniMax Media Inc. is an American video game company. It is based in Rockville Maryland.

ZeniMax Media was founded in 1999. Christopher Weaver and Robert A. Altman started it. Weaver also founded Bethesda Softworks. The name ZeniMax combines “zenith” and “maximum”. It replaced Media Technology Limited as Bethesda’s parent company.

Robert A. Altman became CEO. Weaver contributed his Bethesda Softworks stock. This helped ZeniMax Media get funding. Weaver was chief technology officer until 2002. Then he moved to a non-executive role.

In 2000 SBS Broadcasting invested in ZeniMax. They acquired a 12.5% stake. Terry McAuliffe, George Mitchell, Dean Devlin and Jon Feltheimer became company advisors.

ZeniMax Media acquired the Fallout franchise in 2004. In 2007 ZeniMax Online Studios was created. Matt Firor headed this division.

Also in 2007 ProSiebenSat.1 Media deepened its relationship with ZeniMax. ProSiebenSat.1 Media launched SevenGames.com. They worked with ZeniMax to develop online games.

As of 2007 Weaver held a 33% stake in ZeniMax Media. In 2007 the company was valued at $1.2 billion. Providence Equity Partners invested $300 million for a 25% stake.

ZeniMax Media acquired rights to the Prey video game franchise in 2009. In December 2009 ZeniMax acquired publishing rights to the id Software game Rage.

In 2010 Providence invested another $150 million. By January 2011 ZeniMax employed 400 people. In May 2016 ZeniMax was valued at $2.5 billion.

In 2014 ZeniMax sued Oculus VR. They claimed John Carmack’s contributions to Oculus Rift were ZeniMax property. In 2017 a jury awarded ZeniMax $500 million.

Microsoft announced plans to acquire ZeniMax Media in September 2020. The deal was for $7.5 billion. Robert A. Altman died in February 2021. The acquisition was completed in March 2021. The final cost was $8.1 billion. ZeniMax became part of Microsoft Gaming.

ZeniMax Media owns several studios. These include Bethesda Softworks, id Software, Arkane Studios, MachineGames and ZeniMax Online Studios. These studios have created iconic games.

In May 2024 Microsoft announced closures. Arkane Austin, Alpha Dog Games and Tango Gameworks closed. Roundhouse Studios was absorbed into ZeniMax Online Studios.

ZeniMax Media continues to be a major player in the video game industry. From its humble beginnings to its acquisition by Microsoft, ZeniMax Media’s story reflects a journey of innovation and growth. Its games have captivated millions.

The story of ZeniMax Media Inc. in Washington D.C. is just one of many fascinating insights you can discover with Explory. To experience the city beyond its surface, you need more than just a map – you need a smart guide that reveals the background, the culture, and the character of each place. With Explory’s city guide, you can dive deeper into Washington D.C. and transform your visit into a unique city tour filled with stories that bring history and everyday life to light. Explory connects you with Washington D.C. in a new way. Our guide doesn’t just show you where to go – it enriches your journey with context and atmosphere. Through carefully designed routes and storytelling, you’ll uncover hidden gems and unexpected highlights that even locals might miss. The audio guide makes the city come alive, allowing you to listen while you walk and explore at your own pace. Our city guide is ideal for travelers who want more than sightseeing. Whether your interest is culture, architecture, or local traditions, Explory enables authentic exploration. Each city tour is flexible and intuitive, helping you experience Washington D.C. with freedom while still being guided by expert knowledge. By combining narrative, navigation, and discovery, Explory ensures your trip becomes an adventure filled with hidden gems and lasting impressions. Take the next step and download the Explory App today. Inside, you’ll find over 300 cities and more than 500,000 POIs and stories to explore. Whether you’re searching for a reliable guide, want to try an immersive audio guide, or plan a memorable city tour, Explory is your all-in-one companion. Begin your journey now and uncover the true essence of Washington D.C. – only with Explory.

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