Disney gaming division buys Chinese developer
The Walt Disney Co.’s video game arm has reportedly agreed to buy a Chinese game developer as the U.S. entertainment company seeks to expand its presence in China. Disney Interactive Studios plans to buy Chinese company Gamestar, the gaming affiliate said in a statement seen Tuesday. Terms of the deal were kept confidential.
Founded in 2002, Gamestar employs more than 90 staff members and runs offices in the Chinese cities of Shanghai and Wuhan, according to the statement.
Disney Interactive Studios General Manager Graham Hopper was quoted as saying that Gamestar will contribute to his company’s “global growth plans” and new products.
Disney Interactive Studios used to hire Gamestar for outsourcing work, the Hollywood trade publication Variety reported on its Asian news Web site. Following the acquisition, Gamestar will help with existing projects but may move on to developing original games for the Chinese market, Variety reported.
Disney movies and merchandise are already common in China. Walt Disney Internet Group has also reached a deal with China’s Shanda Interactive Entertainment to launch Disney-themed Internet-based video games.
Source: BusinessWeek
Comments Off