Jeremy Charette
09-25-2006, 08:00 PM
<div class='os_post_top_link'><a href='http://arstechnica.com/news.ars/post/20060923-7811.html' target='_blank'>http://arstechnica.com/news.ars/post/20060923-7811.html</a><br /><br /></div><i>"As games become more and more expensive to develop, it's not surprising to see developers and publishers merging and buying each other in a mad scramble for profitability. However, it was somewhat of a surprise when cable television network MTV announced that they are acquiring developer Harmonix Music Systems, makers of the hit game Guitar Hero, in a deal worth $175 million...Those of us who grew up in the 1980s remember a time when MTV was a television channel that showed music videos, but the company clearly has greater plans and seems almost embarrassed of its roots. Their lineup has been almost entirely filled with reality television for some time now, but apparently the channel is concerned that it is losing younger viewers to the allure of the Internet, with its chat rooms and MySpaces and YouTubes. Recent moves such as the partnership with Microsoft to create the URGE online music store are indications that MTV is trying to break out of its cable TV roots and embed itself into the brave new world of digital distractions."</i><br /><br /> <img src="http://www.digitalmediathoughts.com/images/guitar-hero-2005.jpg" /> <br /><br />The consumer marketplace is changing, and companies like MTV are being forced to adapt. As mindshare shifts away from television and print media to the internet, traditional media outlets are scrambling to find ways to find new customers. I think we'll see more and more of these acquisitions and mergers in the next year. If you can't beat 'em...buy 'em.