Infogrames Gains Paradigm

files/pictures/picture-35.jpgInfogrames Entertainment S.A., a global publisher of interactive entertainment software, has signed a deal to acquire Paradigm Entertainment, Inc., one of the leading developers of interactive 3D video games and related technologies. Within the deal, Paradigm Entertainment will be a wholly owned subsidiary of Infogrames. In addition to developing games, Paradigm will maintain a research and development group with a focus on developing technology for current and next-generation game platforms. The deal will involve the exchange of up to 700,000 Infogrames Entertainment shares. "Infogrames’ U.S. strategy moving forward is to increase the percentage of titles developed internally, focus on high quality titles and lead next-generation console publishing," said Bruno Bonnell, chairman and chief executive officer of Infogrames Entertainment. "Paradigm’s 80-plus person development team will propel us towards these goals with their proven track record of quality content and technological prowess." David Gatchel, president and CEO of Paradigm Entertainment, Inc., said, "Infogrames is a recognized leader within the entertainment industry and Paradigm is honored to join such a world class organization. Through our relationship with Infogrames, Paradigm is positioned to focus its creative and technological expertise toward the continued development of quality interactive experiences." Paradigm is one of the top developers for the Nintendo 64 game console and is actively involved in game development for the next-generation consoles, including the PlayStation2, Microsoft’s XBox and the Nintendo Dolphin. Paradigm has developed titles, such as PILOT WINGS 64, F-1 WORLD GRAND PRIX, BEETLE ADVENTURE RACING and LOONEY TUNES: DUCK DODGERS, STARRING DAFFY DUCK.