Vivendi acquires mobile games developer

Vivendi Games has announced the acquisition of mobile games developer Centerscore in a deal which covers the studio's back catalogue as well as titles currently in development.

Centerscore, whose previous titles include Spin Blocks 360, Alone: The Horror Begins and Amy's Hangman, will continue to be based in San Mateo, California. CEO Oliver Miao will remain in his role, reporting to Vivendi Games Mobile president Paul Maglione.

Vivendi Games' chief strategy and marketing officer, Cindy Cook, described the acquisition as "another step in our plan to be among the top mobile publishers in the industry".

Maglione added: "Centerscore's imaginative games have consistently been top sellers, and the diverse lineup of titles, particularly their excellent range of casual games, is a welcome addition to our existing portfolio."

"What we found most exceptional about Centerscore is the company's ability to successfully build a team of designers, artists, developers and testers from the ground up, and to execute the creation and distribution of great games from under one roof."

The news follows the publication of Vivendi Games' latest financial report, which revealed a profit increase of more than 12 per cent during the second quarter of 2006. Financial terms of the deal will not disclosed.