ZYNGA CLOSES MOBILE GAME DEVELOPER STARLARK ACQUISITION

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 8 -- Zynga Inc, a global leader in interactive entertainment, has announced closing its acquisition of StarLark, developer of the fast-growing and second largest mobile golf game in the world, Golf Rival, from Betta Games for a total purchase price of approximately US$525 million in cash and stock. (US$1 = RM4.180)

StarLark brings to Zynga the talented development team behind the hit mobile game, Golf Rival, where players of all skill levels compete in real-time player-versus-player matches, including multiplayer tournaments on spectacular courses with customisable equipment.

The acquisition also expands Zynga’s international presence by establishing a new China-based studio with access to the region’s creative talent pool. StarLark will continue to be led by its Founder and General Manager, Henry You, and its current management team.

“We could not be more pleased to welcome StarLark’s extraordinarily accomplished team to Zynga,” said Zynga Chief Executive Officer, Frank Gibeau, in a statement.

“StarLark and Zynga share a common vision – to bring people together through games. With Golf Rival, we are expanding Zynga’s portfolio with a new hit franchise and are establishing a developer presence in China. As a combined team, we are well positioned to grow faster together.”

Meanwhile, You said: “StarLark shares a common passion with Zynga for uniting mobile gamers from anywhere in the world. By partnering with Zynga, we will have access to the company’s extensive global resources and expertise, while continuing to develop new and exciting content for players.”

The close of this acquisition is effective Oct 5. Zynga expects to update its full year 2021 guidance when reporting its Q3 2021 financial results on Nov 8.

California-headquartered Zynga which was founded in 2007, has locations in North America, Europe and Asia.

For more information, visit www.zynga.com.

-- BERNAMA