Erik Feig to Head Saudi-Backed Arena SNK Studios

Hollywood veteran Erik Feig, the former Lionsgate executive and founder of Picturestart, has been tapped to lead Arena SNK Studios, a newly launched Saudi-backed entertainment company aiming to merge gaming, film, and fan culture under one global franchise strategy.

The venture, which has financial and strategic ties to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, will focus on developing cross-platform entertainment built around video game IP, anime, and “passionate fandom communities.” Arena SNK also plans to produce large-scale experiential events around the world — positioning itself at the intersection of entertainment, gaming, and immersive culture.

The studio’s board includes an eclectic mix of heavy hitters: Majid Al-Ibrahim, a Saudi businessman and board member of MBC Group, will serve as chairman; Sean Bailey, former Disney film chief; Andrew Chen, Andreessen Horowitz general partner and leading AI investor; and Charlie Wen, CCO of Epic Games.

Arena SNK’s gaming roots stem from SNK Corporation, the iconic Japanese studio behind Fatal Fury, King of Fighters, and Metal Slug. SNK was acquired by the Saudi Crown Prince’s MiSK Foundation, which has since relaunched the brand with ambitions spanning gaming, media, and live experiences.

Feig will continue to serve as Executive Chairman of Picturestart, the banner he founded in 2019, while Arena SNK will operate independently. Industry watchers will be curious to see how major studios and streamers respond to potential partnerships with the Saudi-backed venture — particularly given the country’s expanding footprint in global media and entertainment.

The news was first reported by Puck.

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