A2M Acquires Chilean Developer Wanako Games

MONTREAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwire - Nov. 20, 2008) - A2M (Artificial Mind and Movement), Canada's largest independent game developer, announces that it has acquired Wanako Games, a video game studio located in Santiago, Chile. The first and largest game studio in South America, Wanako Games specializes in the production of downloadable interactive content. The studio is acquired by A2M from Activision Blizzard.

With this transaction, A2M is expanding its offering across Xbox Live Arcade (XBLA) and Playstation Network (PSN), using Wanako's established TONGAS game framework, while entering a growing market segment which complements its existing portfolio.

"The acquisition of Wanako Games is an opportunity to work with an experienced, motivated team, and to add successful downloadable games to our portfolio, including Assault Heroes 2 and 3D Ultra Mini Golf 2, said Remi Racine, A2M's President and CEO. The addition of downloadable content to our game offering has been part of our growth strategy. We couldn't miss this opportunity to provide A2M with a strong foot hold in the downloadable space and access to a great talent pool."

"We couldn't be happier to be joining A2M, commented Tiburcio de la Carcova, Wanako Studio Head. The complementarities of our titles, target markets and technologies, combined with our understanding of the license-based development, are paving the way to a solid alliance between the studios. In addition, we have developed relationships with prestigious universities and art schools in Chile, which will bring new approaches and favor exchange between the two cities."

Wanako Games has worked with the main console technologies, particularly Xbox 360 and Playstation 3. Since its foundation in 2002, the studio has developed 15 titles, including renowned brands, original Intellectual Properties and blockbuster franchises. Wanako Games' portfolio includes 3D Ultra Mini Golf Adventures and Assault Heroes, Game of the Year 2007 according to IGN. The studio is currently working on 3D Ultra Mini Golf 2 as well as an unannounced XBLA/PSN title.

Wanako Games employs 40 people and will continue to be based in Santiago, Chile.

Based in Montreal, Quebec, A2M (www.a2m.com) is dedicated to creating great games and original concepts that capture the player's imagination. Since 1992, A2M has developed over 40 titles across every genre, on every viable platforms. The studio has also partnered with the industry's top publishers and licensors, including Activision Blizzard, Disney, Electronic Arts, LucasArt, Sony and Warner Bros. A2M is Canada's largest independent game developer, employing over 450 talented people, and is committed to producing unparalleled game experiences with original or licensed Intellectual Properties, in a creative environment where talent thrives. Over the past three years, A2M has ranked amongst the Deloitte Technology Fast 50 and also as Canada's 50 Best Managed Companies, two years in a row.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
        A2M
        Michele Fortier
        Communications Director
        514-843-4484 x 426
        Michele.fortier@a2m.com

        Wanako Games
        Tiburcio de la Carcova
        Studio Head
        562-231-5233
        tiburcio@wanakogames.com

Source: A2M