Wargaming, the company behind the free-to-play sensation World of Tanks, has acquired Chicago-based developer Day 1 studios (MechAssault, F.E.A.R. 3, Fracture). The move signals Wargaming's entry into the console market, as Day 1 will be put to task on a yet-to-be-announced console project.

The acquisition sets a key landmark in Wargaming’s strategy of delivering compelling and console-focused gaming experiences, and further reinforces the company’s steps toward multiplatform game development. Wargaming previously announced the acquisition of Australia-based BigWorld Pty Ltd, which provided the company with streamlined development and server middleware tools.

"The move into console game development is a huge step for Wargaming, as we begin to expand our presence into new platforms,” said Victor Kislyi, CEO of Wargaming. “We are looking forward to sharing the fruits of our labor soon.”

"Wargaming is a clear leader in the free-to-play space and helps set the standard on which all other games in the genre strive for,” said Denny Thorley, new Head of Wargaming’s Chicago-based studio. “Our team is extremely excited to start the first console project for Wargaming.”

Oddly, no mention was made of Day 1's previously announced free-to-play Mechassault-esque title Reign of Thunder, which might signal that it has been scrapped, or that it is being retooled for a fresh announcement on console.