As western developers look to make their mark in the east, one outfit already based in the region is also attempting to spread its wings, with Korean developer Gamevil adding to its recent spate of M&A deals.

The company has just announced an equity investment in GMT Soft – an affiliate of a Thai publisher its already worked with, CMT Thai – in order to strengthen its hand in Thailand and Southeast Asia.

The deal comes just weeks after Gamevil acquired Korean rival Com2us, which itself was quickly followed by investments in two further outfits, Everple and DBROS.

Asian eye

"Through the investment, Gamevil looks to capitalise on the high growth potential of the emerging Southeast Asian market," detailed the company in a statement.

"Interestingly enough, Gamevil has been experiencing its largest growth in Southeast Asia. Games such as Fishing Superstars, Monster Warlord, Dark Avenger, and Punch Hero have been doing particularly well in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Singapore, having hit box office scores in each country.

"Going forward, a wider range of games will be tailored to fit the local taste through localiaed marketing efforts and live servicing."

The GMT Soft investment – figures not disclosed - would appear to form part of the firm's $130 million strong M&A warchest, unveiled back in June, with the company having claimed future investments and buyouts would serve as steps along the way to becoming the "top mobile games publisher in the world."