Microsoft Snaps Up Game Developer BigPark

Microsoft has snapped up Vancouver-based game development studio BigPark, which built the Need for Speed and FIFA Soccer franchises.

Microsoft has inked a deal to acquire Vancouver, Canada-based game developer BigPark Inc., which created or produced successful franchises like FIFA Soccer,NBA Street, and the Need for Speed series. Financial terms of the acquisition weren’t disclosed, but Microsoft has been working with BigPark for some time.

Microsoft plans to integrate BigPark into Microsoft Game Studios, where they will continue to work on a so-far unannounced exclusive Xbox 360 game. The acquisition is another step in Microsoft’s strategy to expand the Xbox platform through the development of appealing, exclusive content.

“We are delighted by the opportunity to welcome the BigPark team into Microsoft Game Studios,” said Microsoft Game Studios general manager Phil Spencer, in a statement. “The combination of the BigPark and Microsoft Game Studios talent pools will be an accelerant for growth and innovation. We believe BigPark has tremendous potential to create new properties and innovative gaming experiences for our platforms, one of which we’re looking forward to showcasing at the E3 Expo in June.”

BigPark has some ties to Microsoft executives, too: one of BigPark’s co-founders, Dan Mattrick, became senior VP for Microsoft’s Interactive Entertainment Business in July 2007 when Xbox head Peter Moore left Microsoft for Electronic Arts. Mattrick has continued to serve as chairman of BigPark since signing on full-time with Microsoft.