Microsoft is busy slashing internal staff, but it seems they"ve managed to scrape together enough spare change to pick up a new studio. Vancouver-based BigPark is the latest to enter the Microsoft"s fold, joining the likes of Peter Molyneux"s Lionhead Studios and Rare.

According to Venturebeat, Microsoft has significant ties to BigPark. Interactive Entertainment senior vice president Don Mattrick helped BigPark get off the ground, with many of the developer"s leaders having been part of Mattrick"s Distinctive Software.

He also helped found the studio before joining Microsoft, with the team of 50 going on to work with franchises such as Need for Speed, NBA Street and SSX. They"re also working on an exclusive Microsoft project which is due to be showcased at E3.