Written by: Katie Scott, business reporter Brainz Magazine
Rovio Entertainment, the mobile game giant behind Angry Birds, is to be taken over by Sega Sammy.
The Japanese firm - the creator of Sonic the Hedgehog - has confirmed that an offer of €706m is on the table, though the deal will be subject to regulatory approval.
It would allow Sega to gain a major hold on the mobile gaming market, which it has been eyeing up for years, said the company’s president and chief executive Haruki Satomi. He explained: "Among the rapidly growing global gaming market, the mobile gaming market has especially high potential, and it has been Sega's long-term goal to accelerate its expansion in this field."
Alexandre Pelletier-Normand, chief executive of Rovio, added to the press: "I grew up playing Sonic the Hedgehog, captivated by its state-of-the-art design. Later, when I played Angry Birds for the first time, I knew that gaming had evolved into a true mainstream phenomenon, with the power to shape modern culture."
He said that the deal is set to benefit fans of both companies, stating: "Our mission is to 'craft joy' and we are thrilled at the idea of using our expertise and tools to bring even more joy to our players, enhancing and expanding Rovio's and Sega's vibrant IPs."
