EA Games has bought UK-based publishing company Chillingo, the publishers behind the wildly popular Angry Birds game, as well as other mobile titles for the iPhone, iPad and Android.
Holly Rockwood, EA's spokesperson, confirmed the acquisition, but could not confirm the specific amount. Some sources report that the deal was for $20 million in cash, while others say the deal may have reached upwards of $200 million.
"By acquiring Chillingo, EA Mobile is increasing its market leadership on the Apple Platform as well as reaffirming its position as the world’s leading wireless entertainment publisher," said EA in a press statement. "This acquisition will combine Chillingo’s expertise in cultivating the ideas of independent developers with EA’s global mobile publishing reach."
There are also no plans for EA Games to change the way Chillingo does business. "EA remains committed to preserving Chillingo's independence and letting them continue to manage and cultivate their great network of relationships with independent developers."
If you're yet to try out the sensation that is Angry Birds, you can pick it up on the iTunes App Store for 99 cents, or for free on the Android. Now get going and see what all the hypes about.
