Guitar Hero Studio bought by MTV

2 October 2006

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Posted by:Ferry

Viacom-owned MTV Networks will acquire Guitar Hero developer Harmonix for $175 million in cash, the media giant announced little over a week ago, though IGN mentions the actual deal won’t be completed until the end of the year.

Under the terms of the buy, MTV will acquire all outstanding Harmonix stock. Harmonix will join MTV Networks’ Music and LOGO Enterprises unit. The studio’s employees will retain their current positions.

The acquisition isn’t MTV’s first experience with Harmonix’ work. Late last year, MTV began working with publisher RedOctane to incorporate the Guitar Hero franchise in MTV programming, promotions, and competitions.

“The acquisition of Harmonix will deepen MTV’s connection to its audience via on-line, mobile and console music gaming, and expand the relationship with both labels and artists through the creation of games based on classic songs as well as future album releases,” said MTV President Christina Norman.

Earlier this year, Activision acquired Guitar Hero’s publisher, RedOctane. With Activision in control of the Guitar Hero franchise, it is likely that MTV will indeed use Harmonix primarily to create new games tied to MTV properties. So far, however, neither company has revealed specific plans, nor is it clear whether MTV will now influence future Guitar Hero titles.