Trophy Games buys Playrion from Paradox in record acquisition
Danish studio Trophy Games has acquired Playrion, the developer behind Airport Simulator: First Class, from Paradox Interactive for €2.25 million upfront plus a three-year earn-out. The deal brings 30 employees into Trophy Games, which plans to build a new simulation series around the Airport Simulator brand. Trophy Games raised its 2026 revenue forecast to between €22.8 million and €24.1 million following the purchase.
Trophy Games' purchase marks its largest deal to date, bringing the Paris-based Playrion's 30-person team under Danish ownership. The studio previously acquired Airline Manager 4 in 2021, using that game as a foundation for a broader series—a model it now plans to repeat with Airport Simulator. Trophy Games currently has six titles in development.
Paradox Interactive, which bought Playrion in 2020, is refocusing on PC and console strategy and management games. The sale lets Paradox shed its mobile-focused subsidiary while Trophy Games gains an established brand and workforce. Trophy Games has quadrupled revenue in five years and raised its 2026 forecast to roughly €22.8–24.1 million.
This acquisition could reshape the mobile simulation market, as Trophy Games' proven series-building strategy may extend Airport Simulator's reach to new audiences. Players could benefit from more frequent updates and content, while employees gain stability under a growth-focused owner. The deal also signals mid-tier studios consolidating, which may reduce independent developers but could strengthen long-term game quality.