Splosion Man studio Twisted Pixel no longer part of Microsoft

Twisted Pixel, the Austin, Texas-based studio behind Splosion Man, Comic Jumper and The Gunstringer, is being spun off by owner Microsoft and will become an independent studio once again, according to an announcement from the developer.

"Microsoft has been an incredible partner since day one and we've always kept a background dialog open with them about the idea of returning to an independent studio model if the timing made sense for us," said Josh Bear, Twisted Pixel co-founder and creative director, in a press release.

Microsoft acquired Twisted Pixel in 2011. The developer was tasked with incubating "new game and entertainment experiences for Microsoft Studios." Twisted Pixel released two titles while part of Microsoft Studios: Kinect game The Gunstringer and the poorly received Xbox One launch title LocoCycle.

"This transition has been in the works for a few months, with both parties working together to lay the groundwork for us to spin out and become independent again," said Bill Muehl, executive producer for Twisted Pixel, in a statement. "We're looking forward to the new relationships and platforms this will open up to us and continuing our strong partnership with Microsoft on future titles for their platforms."

Twisted Pixel and Microsoft have worked together for close to 10 years; six Twisted Pixel games have been published by Microsoft.