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UK retailer Game saved by OpCapita buyout

Comet owner buys firm's assets

UK retailer Game saved by OpCapita buyout
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| GAME news

Previously written out of the picture following an earlier buyout attempt, it's being reported OpCapita has purchased the assets of UK retailer Game.

The Telegraph claims the investment firm, which recently acquired electronics retailer Comet, tabled an offer to take control of the chain accepted by Game little under a week after the company went into administration.

Taking a hit

The body states Game's six lenders, which include the Bank of Scotland and Barclays, have agreed to take a reduction in the amount of money owned to them by Game in order to secure both the buyout and the future of the firm.

"This deal should save many jobs and stores and will buy Game breathing space during which it can develop a new business strategy," said TIGA CEO Dr. Richard Wilson in a statement.

"Game has suffered from physical and online competition, the shift from physical to digital games, and the decision by big global publishers not to stock Game with new releases."

Getting back in the game

Indeed, just what plans OpCapita has for Game will now be the focus for commentators and, as stated by Wilson, the chain's acquisition doesn't necessarily mean its place on the high street is secure.

"Given the rapid transition to digital gaming with consumers spending money on platforms such as Steam, Origin, the App Store, PSN, XBLA and Android market, Game will have to develop a digital strategy – fast," he continued.

"More generally, it is vital that we support the growing number of small to medium sized developers and digital publishers that have emerged over recent years."

PocketGamer.biz's take on Game's current troubles, including the need for the firm to make a move in the digital arena, can be read here.

[source: The Telegraph]

Keith Andrew
Keith Andrew
With a fine eye for detail, Keith Andrew is fuelled by strong coffee, Kylie Minogue and the shapely curve of a san serif font. He's also Pocket Gamer's resident football gaming expert and, thanks to his work on PG.biz, monitors the market share of all mobile OSes on a daily basis.