The games maker Electronic Arts (EA) has closed the acquisition of Playfish for $ 275 million in cash and other forms of compensation, extending its business to the growing social gaming industry.
The Playfish, a company founded two years ago with headquarters in London, makes games to be played on the computer between families and friends, unlike traditional games that rely on specific consoles. Among its hits there are the game of virtual pets “Pet Society” and the game of questions and answers “Who Has The Biggest Brain?”.

Under the agreement, EA has paid about $ 275 million in cash plus another $ 25 million in retention agreements of shares, the company said on Monday (9).

In addition, the former owners of Playfish also entitled to additional compensation in cash, the value of variable, up to $ 100 million, provided that certain goals are achieved performance of the company until December 31, 2011.

EA said the deal would accelerate consolidation in the entertainment industry in social networks and strengthens its focus on the transition to digital social games.
The agreement comes at a crucial time for the video game market, which saw its sales plummet this year amid a shortage of famous release and consumer caution, with an eye on their spending due to economic recession.

Via: Folha.