Bethesda Softworks is in the process of setting up a European division – headed up by UK industry heavyweight Sean Brennan.

The move is yet to be confirmed by the Oblivion publisher, but MCV understands that Brennan is already on board, albeit in a consultancy role at present, having recently parted company with budget PS2 outfit Blast Entertainment.

It is understood that he is seeking a London HQ and recruiting staff, with Greg Baverstock and Christina Camerota – who both worked with Brennan during the Virgin Interactive years – already rumoured to be on board with him at Bethesda Europe.

Industry chatter also suggests that Bethesda is aggressively looking for creative talent – with studio acquisitions and a new internal European development office both looking likely.

It’s a hugely significant and ambitious strategy for Bethesda, which has previously used third party co-publishing partners in Europe – most recently with Ubisoft (Morrowind) and 2K Games (Oblivion).

No-one from Bethesda was available for comment at the time of press.