Disney to buy Chinese game developer

The Walt Disney Co.’s video game arm will buy a Chinese game developer as the U.S. entertainment giant expands in China. As reported in the San Francisco Chronicle, Disney Interactive Studios plans to buy Chinese company Gamestar, Founded in 2002, Gamestar has offices in the Chinese cities of Shanghai and Wuhan, according to the company. The acquisition will contribute to his Disney’s “global growth plans” and new products, said Graham Hopper, general manager for Disney Interactive. Gamestar had previously done outsourcing work for Disney, according to the Chronicle report and terms of the deal were not disclosed. Following the acquisition, Gamestar will help with existing projects but may move on to developing original games for the Chinese market. Walt Disney Internet Group has also reached a deal with China’s Shanda Interactive Entertainment to launch Disney-themed Internet-based video games.