Video game developer and publisher Trion World Network announced today the launch of a new development studio in San Diego, complementing its existing studios in Austin, Texas and the San Francisco Bay Area. The company said the move "cements Trion in the top locations for server-based game development in the U.S."

Heading the new San Diego studio will be Nicholas Beliaeff, former Executive Director of Development and San Diego Studio Manager for Sony Online Entertainment (SOE). Trion has also tasked him with overseeing game development across all of the studio locations.

Beliaeff has almost 20 years of experience in the game industry. In his last role at SOE, he built the publisher's console division and launched new IP, such as Untold Legends and Field Commander, as well as operating SOE's EverQuest I & II, EverQuest: Online Adventures, PlanetSide and Vanguard franchises. He also managed and monitored design and operational steps for games as the head of development at SOE San Diego. Beliaeff previously worked at Strategic Simulations, The 3DO Company and New World Computing.

In addition to Beliaeff, a number of other SOE veterans have joined Trion, such as Bill Trost (Lead Game Designer), Robert Hill (Senior Producer) and Brandon Bogle (Principal Engineer).

"Trion represents my career goals of defining the future of games, which we believe is online, as well as offering a team atmosphere most conducive to creativity and success," commented Beliaeff.

Trion CEO and co-founder Lars Butler, the former Vice President for Global Online at Electronic Arts, added: "Trion continues to build an exceptional studio organization and unique worldwide publishing network for server-based games and connected entertainment. We are thrilled to have Nicholas, Bill, Rob, Brandon, and other outstanding game developers seed our San Diego studio."

Trion has yet to detail its first project(s) but the company recently landed a round of funding worth $30 million, led by Rustic Canyon Partners. Other investors include Time Warner, NBC-Universal, GE, Bertelsmann, DCM and Trinity Ventures.