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Ubisoft acquires Trials and DrawRace developer RedLynx

Publisher continues its digital download expansion

Ubisoft acquires Trials and DrawRace developer RedLynx
Few concrete details have been given, but Ubisoft has acquired Finnish console and mobile developer RedLynx.

The amount wasn't disclosed but given RedLynx's annual income is thought to have been around €10 million, with a likely profit margin of over 40 percent, thanks to its focus on digital downloads, the French publisher will have likely spent tens of millions of euros.

The Helsinki-based developer is best known for its Trials physics games, which have sold over 2 million copies on Xbox Live.

It also develops the DrawRace series on iOS, and has a half ownership of the Monster Trucks Nitro brand with Miniclip.

Buying market share

The move fits into Ubisoft's current strategic push into the digital downloads business.

"The team at RedLynx has developed exceptionally strong digital brands that stand out for their high replay value, their long tail sales and their multiplatform positioning. We are delighted to welcome RedLynx to the Ubisoft family," said Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot.

"Their expertise in asynchronous online games and physics-based game mechanics provides us with a great opportunity to bring their powerful brands, most notably Trials, to an even broader range of fast-growing digital platforms."

"The reality of today's market is not about platforms, it's about creating excellent gaming experiences that consumers can play on any device or screen they like," stated Tero Virtala, RedLynx's CEO.

"As part of the Ubisoft team, RedLynx will be able to focus even more intently on creating stand-out, excellent brands that push the boundaries of online gaming in many new growth areas."

[source: RedLynx]
Contributing Editor

A Pocket Gamer co-founder, Jon is Contributing Editor at PG.biz which means he acts like a slightly confused uncle who's forgotten where he's left his glasses. As well as letters and cameras, he likes imaginary numbers and legumes.