Midway to join Viacom?

Midway could soon officially become part of the Viacom family – bringing with it its enviable network of development houses.

That’s according to the publisher’s CEO – and former head of worldwide studios – Matt Booty, who told MCV that Midway strategically fits with Viacom’s overall future plans”.

Viacom owner Sumner Redstone is a majority shareholder in Midway and appointed his daughter, Shari Redstone, as chair of the firm in December.

Midway currently has no business relationship with Viacom, but the media giant is bringing itself much closer to interactive entertainment – not least announcing that movie subsidiary Paramount is to become a video games publisher.

When asked if Viacom could become Midway’s parent, Booty told MCV:

Midway is a strong entity for [Shari and Sumner Redstone] and it strategically fits in with their overall plan. But for any more details you’d have to ask them.”

International executive VP Martin Spiess added that Midway itself could be in the market to buy up a smaller publisher or developer.

He said: I can’t reveal details, but we’re currently considering both publisher and studio acquisitions. We’re always looking at opportunities.”

To read the full interview with Midway CEO Matt Booty and newly-promoted international executive VP Martin Spiess, look out for next week’s MCV magazine.