Sony Computer Entertainment to acquire Gaikai Inc

2 Jul 2012

Sony Computer Entertainment (SCE) has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire cloud-based gaming company Gaikai Inc for about US$380m.

Gaikai Inc, which is headquartered in Aliso Viejo, California, has developed a cloud-streaming platform that enables the streaming of games to various devices via the internet.  

Under the deal, SCE will establish a new cloud service and expand its network business by leveraging Gaikai’s technology and infrastructure, including data centres servicing dozens of countries and key partners worldwide.

“By combining Gaikai’s resources, including its technological strength and engineering talent with SCE’s extensive game platform knowledge and experience, SCE will provide users with unparallelled cloud entertainment experiences,” said Andrew House, president and Group CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

“SCE will deliver a world-class cloud-streaming service that allows users to instantly enjoy a broad array of content, ranging from immersive core games with rich graphics to casual content anytime, anywhere on a variety of internet-connected devices.”

David Perry, CEO of Gaikai Inc, added that SCE “has built an incredible brand with PlayStation”.

“We’re honoured to be able to help SCE rapidly harness the power of the interactive cloud and to continue to grow their ecosystem, to empower developers with new capabilities, to dramatically improve the reach of exciting content and to bring breathtaking new experiences to users worldwide,” Perry said.

The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.

Tina Costanza was a journalist and sub-editor at Silicon Republic

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