Razer acquires Ouya.
Today, Razer officially confirmed the acquisition of all of Ouya's software assets along with the company's technical team and developer relations personnel.
Interestingly enough, Razer didn't purchase the console itself. The company explained that it “is not retaining interest in OUYA hardware or related assets.” However, it will still release Android TV content and Android-based TV games under the Ouya name.
Razer is hoping to entice exisiting Ouya users to switch to Forge TV, the company's own Android-based console. In the statement, the company outlines its strategy:
In the near future, Razer will be providing existing OUYA users with a clear path of migration to the more advanced Forge TV micro-console and Serval controller bundle. Razer’s intention is to allow OUYA users to bring their games, controllers, and accounts to the Cortex TV platform on the Forge micro-console, advancing the experience of Android gaming on TV that they have previously enjoyed. Additionally, Razer is planning deep product discounts for incoming OUYA users to purchase Razer hardware, and a spate of freebies, giveaways, and promotions to enjoy on their new Forge consoles.”
Additionally, Razer will be re-launching the Ouya store as Cortex for Android TV, accessible via Forge TV.
Going forward, Razer plans to significantly develop the Forge TV console, controllers, and software solutions in order to enhance the home entertainment experience. What's more, the company intends on bringing a multitude of additional games to the Android platform it purchased by increasing investments in developer and publisher programs, as well as complementary technology partner initiatives.
Min-Liang Tan, the co-funder and CEO of Razer, had this to say regarding the acquisition:
Razer has a long-term vision for Android TV and Android-based TV consoles, such as the Xiaomi Mi Box and Alibaba Tmall Box, to which OUYA already publishes”, he explains.
OUYA’s work with game developers, both triple A and indies, went a long way in bringing Android games to the living room and Razer intends to further that work. This acquisition is envisaged to usher more developers and content to the Android TV platform.”
While the technical team and developer relations personnel will be working under Razer, Ouya CEO Julie Uhrman decided to move on.
.@juhrman OUYA was a once in a lifetime experience. Now, I'm off to find the next...stay tuned!
— Julie Uhrman (@juhrman) July 27, 2015
Uhrman thanked everyone she worked with, as well as Kickstarer, the crowdfunding platform that helped make Ouya a reality.
Razer did not disclose the financial details of the transaction. However, it it rumored that the company paid $10 million USD for the acquisition.
Thus ends the tale of a console that took Kickstarter by storm and amassed $8.5 million USD in crowdfunding.
Source: RazerZone
