Sega is targeting more acquisitions and not looking to sell up, despite interest from “many” companies.
That’s according to chief operating officer Shuji Utsumi, who discussed the Japanese publisher’s recentacquisition of Angry Bird maker Rovio, as well as reports thatXboxmakerMicrosoftwas interested in buyingSega, during an interview withCNBC.
“As an entity of Sega Sammy, we are acquiring some of the companies. We just made an announcement [to buy Rovio]. We are still looking for opportunities for growth,” he said.
Legal documents published earlier this revealed that in November 2020, Xbox bossPhil Spencerrequested approval from Microsoft’s CEO toapproach Sega Sammy about buying its gaming studios.
At the time, Spencer described Sonic firm Sega as Xbox’s “most attractive next acquisition target due to its globalPCcatalog, presence on mobile in Asia, and global brand affinity on console through its classic IP”.
“Many companies are interested. We feel honored,” Utsumi told CNBC.
“We have attractive IPs and potentials. Companies owned by the owner. A strong owner. I don’t think that kind of transaction is going to happen.”
Following the success of its Sonic movies, Utsumi also saidSega wants to expand the reach of its other biggest franchises, like Persona andYakuza, beyond video games.
