Microsoft announced Thursday that it will buy the interactive online gaming company BigPark, folding it into Microsoft’s Game Studios. The Vancouver, British Columbia-based shop was founded in 2007 by veterans of Electronic Arts Canada and Distinctive Software who were involved in the production of such ongoing franchise games as Need for Speed, FIFA Soccer, NBA Street, and SSX.
Price Not Announced
The price for the 50-person company was not announced. A spokesperson for Microsoft told news media that BigPark is a small company and the price was minor for a company of Microsoft’s size.
BigPark’s big project has been the development of an Xbox 360-exclusive game on which both companies have already collaborated over the last year.
Microsoft Game Studios general manager Phil Spencer described the team at BigPark as being “composed of some of the most experienced and creative minds working in the industry today,” adding that they are looking forward to showing the new Xbox game at the E3 Expo next month.
The founders of BigPark include Don Mattrick, who later became senior vice president of the interactive entertainment business at Microsoft. In the announcement, Microsoft noted that “Mattrick’s role as an investor in BigPark was fully disclosed to Microsoft before he joined the company,” and his role at BigPark was consistent with the Microsoft Standards of Business Conduct.
Microsoft also said Mattrick had not been part of BigPark’s day-to-day management. According to news reports, Mattrick is a minority shareholder in BigPark.
Founded Distinctive Software at 17
Mattrick founded Distinctive Software at the tender age of 17. In 1991, it was purchased by Electronic Arts and became EA Canada. At EA, he was president of the company’s worldwide studios.
He first began working with Microsoft as an external adviser to the entertainment and devices division two years ago, and he officially joined the team a few…