A2M acquires Wanako Games

A2M, Canada’s largest independent game developer has acquired Chilean studio Wanako Games, based in Santiago.

By purchasing Wanako, which specialises in downloadable interactive content, A2M is hoping to expand its presence on the Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network platforms, harnessing Wanako’s TONGAS game framework

"The acquisition of Wanako Games is an opportunity to work with an experienced, motivated team, and to add successful downloadable games to our portfolio, including Assault Heroes 2 and 3D Ultra Mini Golf 2," said A2M’s president and CEO Remi Racine. "The addition of downloadable content to our game offering has been part of our growth strategy. We couldn’t miss this opportunity to provide A2M with a strong foot hold in the downloadable space and access to a great talent pool."

"We couldn’t be happier to be joining A2M," added Tiburcio de la Carcova, Wanako studio head. "The complementarities of our titles, target markets and technologies, combined with our understanding of the license-based development, are paving the way to a solid alliance between the studios. In addition, we have developed relationships with prestigious universities and art schools in Chile, which will bring new approaches and favour exchange between the two cities."

A2M made the acquisition from Activision Blizzard and assumes ownership of Wanako as the Chilean developer continues work on 3D Ultra Mini Golf 2 and an unnamed XBLA and PSN title. Wanako Games currently boasts a headcount of 40, and will remain in Santiago.