China-based developer ZPlay has acquired a 70% stake in Saskatoon-based indie mobile game developer and publisher Noodlecake Studios for $4.9 million (CAD $6.3 million).
As reported by the Saskatoon Star Phoenix, the deal allows Noodlecake easier access to launching its games in Asia. The funds will also be used to develop new games and grow its business.
The acquisition shouldn't change too much about the developer, with its small team remaining in the Saskatoon offices. The deal also doesn't affect Noodlecake's software consulting business.
Looking for partnerships
"They're looking for partnerships with strong brands and strong studios to kind of broaden their international reach and likewise for us, we've been searching for the right partner in China because although we’re seeing great downloads there, we need a Chinese partner to really tap that market," said Noodlecake CEO Jordan Schidlowsky.
"The operation doesn’t change at all. We're in Saskatoon. We love Saskatoon. We're staying in Saskatoon. It's pretty safe to say that nothing is changing."
As a developer, Noodlecake is best known for its Super Stickman Golf series. It is also the publisher behind games such as Lumino City, Alto's Adventure, and Framed.
China is a notoriously hard market to break into from the West due to its stringent regulations. Games won't be approved for release in the country if they contain English words, for example.