What Company Did EA Buy?
Electronic Arts (EA), a leading video game company, has been acquiring and merging with various game studios and companies over the years. In this article, we will explore some of the notable acquisitions made by EA.
EA Origin Renamed to EA Play
In 2020, EA merged its EA Access and Origin Access Basic subscription services together into one, which became EA Play. It also renamed Origin Access Premier to EA Play Pro. This move aimed to simplify the company’s streaming and subscription offerings, providing a more unified experience for gamers.
Who Owns the Most of EA?
Largest shareholders of EA include:
| Shareholder | Percentage Ownership |
|---|---|
| BlackRock Inc. | 10.34% |
| Public Investment Fund | 9.42% |
| Vanguard Group Inc | 8.11% |
| State Street Corp | 6.55% |
| Wellington Management Group Llp | 4.23% |
| VTSMX – Vanguard Total Stock Market Index Fund Investor Shares | 3.44% |
| Massachusetts Financial Services Co /ma/ | 3.13% |
| VFINX – Vanguard 500 Index Fund Investor Shares | 2.72% |
| Geode Capital Management | 2.51% |
As you can see, these shareholders collectively hold a significant portion of EA’s stock, indicating the company’s importance in the global market.
EA Acquired Playdemic, a Mobile Game Developer
In June 2021, EA acquired Playdemic, a mobile game developer based in Manchester, England, from Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment for $1.4 billion. This acquisition aimed to strengthen EA’s presence in the mobile gaming market and expand its capabilities in developing casual, online multiplayer games.
Take-Two Interactive Software Acquired Rockstar Games
Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc., the parent company of Rockstar Games, acquired Rockstar in 1999. This acquisition has led to the development of several successful video game franchises, including the Grand Theft Auto and Red Dead Redemption series.
Who Does Take-Two Own?
Take-Two Interactive Software owns:
- Rockstar Games, a renowned video game developer and publisher
- 2K, a leading video game publisher
- Private Division, a subsidiary focused on developing and publishing AAA games
- Zynga, a social games developer and publisher
This diverse portfolio of companies demonstrates Take-Two’s commitment to the gaming industry, with a focus on quality, innovative games that resonate with gamers worldwide.
Other Notable Acquisitions by EA
In recent years, EA has acquired several notable companies, including:
- Codemasters (2021): A racing game developer and publisher known for its TOCA Racing Series and DIRT games.
- Glu Mobile (2021): A mobile game developer and publisher known for its Real Housewives and Kim Kardashian titles.
- Respawn Entertainment (2017): An independent game developer and publisher behind the Titanfall and Apex Legends franchises.
- Firemonkeys Studios (2015): A mobile game developer and publisher known for its Real Racing and Real Football titles.
These acquisitions have enabled EA to expand its capabilities, improve its game development processes, and diversify its portfolio with new franchises and intellectual properties.
Conclusion
EA has made significant strides in the gaming industry through various acquisitions and mergers over the years. From merging its subscription services to acquiring mobile game developers, the company has demonstrated its commitment to innovation, quality, and expansion. By examining EA’s notable acquisitions and ownership structure, we gain a deeper understanding of the company’s position in the gaming industry and its ongoing efforts to drive growth and success.