Three game industry veterans, including the chief architect of middleware engine NetImmerse, have formed a new games studio named Azo Studios. The new company intends to create both its own commercial titles and middleware solutions for home consoles, PCs and handhelds.

The studio intends to develop its own intellectual properties in-house, in conjunction with "strategic partners in the music and entertainment industries".

Dave Eberly is known for his work on NetImmerse, which later became Gamebryo, and has also contributed to a number of other titles for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 2, Xbox and PC. Eberly will serve as chief technology officer at Azo.

Studio co-founders Nick Koziupa and Brian Westergaard also have considerable experience on various platforms. Koziupa takes the role of vice president with responsibility for all design and production at Azo, while Westergaard becomes vice president in charge of all art and animation development.

"We look forward to joining the video game community not only as a game developer but also as a provider of middleware solutions," said Koziupa in a statement.

"Dave’s prior experience as the chief architect of NetImmerse puts Azo Studios in a strong position to develop cutting edge technology with an eye toward future licensing opportunities."