Team17 acquires Iguana as it looks to expand into social and mobile development

Best known for its 15-year Worms franchise, UK developer Team17 is looking to expand its vision and headcount, announcing the acquisition of UK outfit Iguana Entertainment.

Formed by brothers Jason and Darren Falcus in Teeside in 2009 - they originally set up what became Acclaim UK in the mid-1990s - the deal sees the two join Team 17 as head of studio development and senior manager of business development respectively.

The deal also sees what's described as "a number of assets" transfered, and a number of employees will become part of Team17's Wakefield studio.

From reptiles to annelids

"Team17 has always been synonymous with creating quality, internationally successful games, and I'm relishing the opportunity to be working with its talented studio on some fantastic new games and projects," said Jason Falcus

Currently, Iguana is working on a Facebook Worms game - Worms Social - while it recently released Phil Taylor's Power Play Darts on the DS.

"Iguana is a young and highly talented studio with an established base of skills and experienced staff," commented Team17 MD Debbie Bestwick.

"Its recent experience within social games and Facebook development in particular makes it an ideal fit for Team17 as we expand further into digital, mobile and web development. Jason and Darren will play a key part in fulfilling our future plans for the company, with their industry and gaming knowledge. It is great to have them on board."

[source: Iguana]