Microsoft Corp. announced it has reached a preliminary agreement to acquire Digital
Anvil Inc., a Austin, Texas games developer. Under the terms of the
deal, Microsoft would gain the rights to Digital Anvil titles, such
as FREELANCER, the highly anticipated space-combat simulation game.
This deal gives Microsoft more leverage in game development for its
forthcoming Xbox console. Microsoft and Digital Anvil have worked
together on PC games since 1997. Microsoft has recently acquired such
gaming firms as FASA Interactive Technologies Inc., creators of the
best-selling MECHWARRIOR franchise; Access Software Inc., creators of
LINKS golf simulation games; and Bungie Software Products Corp.,
creators of the upcoming HALO. "The acquisition of Digital Anvil will
strengthen our commitment to producing top-quality PC and Xbox
titles," said Ed Fries, vice president of games publishing at
Microsoft." FREELANCER is a true expression of Digital Anvil's
innovative spirit. By combining our internal resources with the
Digital Anvil team's development talent, we will ensure the
realization of their creative visions." Moreover, Chris Roberts,
founder and CEO of Digital Anvil, will leave the company to pursue
other creative endeavors. However, he will continue to serve as an
advisor until the completion of FREELANCER. "This acquisition is a
positive growth opportunity for Digital Anvil," Roberts said. "Under
the Microsoft umbrella, FREELANCER and other games will be supported
by a strong infrastructure and realized in the spirit in which they
were conceived."
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
Creator of Rick's Flicks Picks
