Vivendi Universal acquires High Moon Studios

Vivendi Universal Games has acquired High Moon Studios, the California-based developer formerly known as Sammy Studios, gaining control of the company's intellectual properties in the process.

High Moon came into existence last March following a management buyout as parent firm Sammy Corporation prepared to merge with Sega. The studio is best known for producing Darkwatch, a western-style first-person shooter released on PS2 and Xbox last year.

More than 100 members of staff are employed at the studio's Carlsbad offices in California, and they will be retained as part of the new acquisition deal.

"High Moon has assembled an experienced team of development professionals who are passionate about creating compelling interactive entertainment for audiences around the world," said High Moon CEO John Rowe.

"We are happy to be a part of Vivendi Universal Games, and we believe that the acquisition is a very positive step for the growth of our studio."

Vivendi CEO Bruce Hack added: "VU Games and High Moon are already collaborating on a soon-to-be-announced project based on a major entertainment license."

"Our acquisition of the studio is another major step forward in building the company's position as a leader in next generation console games."

The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.