Following last week’s rumors, SEGA has announced that the company has purchased Angry Birds maker Rovio Entertainment for €706 million, which is around $775 million.
The price is significantly less than the $1 billion purchase price that was rumored, but nonetheless, the deal is done.
SEGA will be paying €9.25 per share in the deal, up nearly 19% from its close on April 14.
“Among the rapidly growing global gaming market, the mobile gaming market has especially high potential, and it has been Sega’s long-term goal to accelerate its expansion in this field,” SEGA Sammy CEO Haruki Satomi said in a statement.
“I feel blessed to be able to announce such a transaction with Rovio, a company that owns Angry Birds, which is loved across the world, and home to many skilled employees that support the company’s industry-leading mobile game development and operating capabilities.”
Alexandre Pelletier-Normand, chief executive officer of Rovio, said: “I grew up playing Sonic the Hedgehog, captivated by its state-of-the-art design.
“Our mission is to ‘craft joy’ and we are thrilled at the idea of using our expertise and tools to bring even more joy to our players, enhancing and expanding Rovio’s and Sega’s vibrant IPs.”, he added.
Just like with all acquisitions, the deal is subject to shareholder and regulator approval.
You can read the official press release on SEGA’s website (article to be updated with English version later).
For more Insider Gaming news, check out our coverage of Hogwarts Legacy and its undeniable ability to break records. In addition, new rumors last week suggested that Call of Duty zombies will be returning in 2023, but you can read our thoughts on if it’s true here.
