UPDATED: Tencent Enters Into Exclusive Negotiations To Acquire Leyou Technologies

Jason Winter
By Jason Winter, News Editor Posted:
Share:

UPDATED, July 11: It looks like Tencent has procured an exclusive window to negotiate for the acquisition of Leyou. According to this press release from Leyou, Tencent has three months to finalize a deal with Leyou's controlling shareholder Charles Yuk to acquire and privatize the company and its subsidiaries, including Digital Extremes and Athlon Games. It's still possible that the deal might not be finalized, but for now, it's looking as if Tencent will be adding another gaming studio to its already hefty portfolio.

Original Story: Back in December, we reported on the potential sale of Leyou Technologies by Chinese mobile developer iDreamSky. Leyou, as you may know, owns most of Warframe developer Digital Extremes; iDreamSky, which you may not know, is partially owned by Tencent. Chinese developer Zhejiang Century Huatong Group is also looking to acquire Leyou.

Now that we're all caught up on those details, it's time for a new contender to enter the ring: Sony.

The South China Morning Post is reporting that Sony is looking to bid on Leyou as well, which could lead to "an intensified bidding war" for the Hong Kong-based developer, which is valued at approximately $1.23 billion. According to SCMP, Leyou controlling shareholder Charles Yuk is looking to finalize the sale "as soon as this month."

It's understandable if fans might view Sony as a better alternative than many of the other potential buyers, considering that it's a better-known name and Warframe is already on the PlayStation 4. Whoever does wind up taking control of Leyou -- and Digital Extremes and Athlon Games -- it probably won't make that much of a tangible difference, but a little positive spin never hurt.

UPDATE: Niko Partners Senior Analyst Daniel Ahmad has unearthed a notice that Leyou's shares are no longer being traded on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange "pending the release of an announcement pursuant to the Hong Kong Code on Takeovers and Mergers." That sounds like an announcement is imminent.

Share:
Got a news tip? Contact us directly here!

About the Author

Jason Winter
Jason Winter, News Editor
Jason Winter is a veteran gaming journalist, he brings a wide range of experience to MMOBomb, including two years with Beckett Media where he served as the editor of the leading gaming magazine Massive Online Gamer. He has also written professionally for several gaming websites.

Discussion (4)

Buggy 3 years ago
If they buy I get out before they Die I would rather have sony own stocks of DE warframe than tencent. I know warframe devs and the team have no choice over the company's choice of selling to who but I have a choice on what I want to play and I am adamant about avoiding anything with tencent and epic games is a perfect example.

Faktamanen 3 years ago
Well thay cant do anything to Warframe no mather the buyer, Digital Extremes owns the IP and rights to do what ever thay want with it. "Leyou, as you may know, owns most of Warframe developer Digital Extremes; iDreamSky, which you may not know, is partially owned by Tencent" hes a shareholder nothing more... and ho cares about ho buys what? still just the korea branch.. nothing this will effect NA/EU

Karnaij 3 years ago
oh boy here comes sony prepare for pay to win and loot boxes gg

View 1 reply

Read Next

Get Your Own Mech Mounts In Rift This Weekend

Get Your Own Mech Mounts In Rift This Weekend

We all know how hard it is to get your hands on some mounts in Rift.

By QuintLyn Bowers - 3 years ago

You May Enjoy

Leaked Footage From Upcoming Skate Reboot Game Shows Parkour Elements

Leaked Footage From Upcoming Skate Reboot Game Shows Parkour Elements

Previous titles allowed players to run on foot, but this suggests a deeper focus on these mechanics.

By Matthew D'Onofrio - 3 days ago
Marvel's Avengers End Of Support Date Nears, Bidding Farewell With 90% Discount

Marvel's Avengers End Of Support Date Nears, Bidding Farewell With 90% Discount

After delisting, the game will still be accessible for solo and multiplayer play.

By Matthew D'Onofrio - 2 days ago
Top 7 Multiplayer Games That Failed To Live Up To The Hype

💣 Feature | Top 7 Multiplayer Games That Failed To Live Up To The Hype

These game failed to capitalize on the excitement players had for them.

By Troy Blackburn - 1 week ago
P2E MMORPG Riders of Icarus Sees New Map Expansion MAGMAPORA Launch Today

P2E MMORPG Riders of Icarus Sees New Map Expansion MAGMAPORA Launch Today

This volcanic-themed region offers fresh quests, creatures, and mysteries.

By Matthew D'Onofrio - 1 week ago
As Investors Worry About Square Enix, Final Fantasy XIV Devs Plan To Keep On Making Variant And Criterion Dungeons

As Investors Worry About Square Enix, Final Fantasy XIV Devs Plan To Keep On Making Variant And Criterion Dungeons

Though, they admit there are some things they need to address.

By QuintLyn Bowers - 1 week ago
NCSoft Announces Global Closed Beta For 30-Player Action Battle Brawler, Battle Crush

NCSoft Announces Global Closed Beta For 30-Player Action Battle Brawler, Battle Crush

The game was part of today’s Nintendo Direct showcase.

By QuintLyn Bowers - 1 week ago