Mumbai’s Nazara Technologies, India’s only publicly listed gaming company, has completed its biggest international acquisition to date by buying 100% of UK-based Curve Digital Entertainment Ltd (Curve Games) for Rs 247 crore (GBP 21.7 million). This all-cash deal marks a strategic leap for Nazara as it strengthens its presence in the booming global PC and console gaming market, valued at over $100 billion.
Curve Games: A Global Indie Powerhouse
Curve Games is a leading publisher of PC and console titles, best known for popular indie hits that have collectively achieved over 100 million downloads worldwide. Curve is a major player in key regions including North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific.
Financial Highlights for 2024:
- Revenue: Rs 263.5 crore (GBP 24.4 million)
- EBITDA: Rs 114.4 crore (GBP 10.6 million)
- Profit Before Tax: Rs 49.6 crore (GBP 4.6 million)
Curve’s strong publishing record and global reach make it a valuable addition to Nazara’s growing portfolio.
Why This Acquisition Matters for Nazara
Diversifying Beyond Mobile
Nazara has built its reputation on mobile gaming, esports, and sports media, with successful brands like Kiddopia, Animal Jam, Fusebox Games, World Cricket Championship, and Sportskeeda. With this acquisition, Nazara is now making a big push into the high-value PC and console gaming segments.
Strategic Benefits
- Global Expansion: Curve’s established presence in North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific gives Nazara direct access to top gaming markets.
- Cross-Platform Growth: The deal enables Nazara to develop and publish games across mobile, PC, and console, accelerating its ambition to become a global gaming powerhouse.
- Gateway for Indian Developers: Curve will serve as a bridge for Indian game creators to reach international audiences, opening new opportunities for the Indian gaming ecosystem.
Leadership Speaks
“Curve’s proven expertise in PC and console publishing makes them an ideal partner as we expand our focus beyond mobile into high-quality, cross-platform gaming. This acquisition deepens our capabilities, brings exceptional IP into our fold, and strengthens our mission in building Nazara as a global gaming powerhouse from India. Curve will also serve as a gateway to the world for Indian game developers.”
— Nitish Mittersain, CEO, Nazara Technologies
“Joining the Nazara family is an exciting new chapter for Curve. Nazara’s ecosystem, access to emerging markets, and long-term vision make them a strong strategic partner. We are aligned in our goal of building a leading global indie publishing platform.”
— Stuart Dinsey, Executive Chairman, Curve Games
What’s Next for Nazara?
Nazara has been on an acquisition spree, recently buying mobile game IPs and wrestling content platforms to expand its reach. The Curve Games deal, funded through intra-group debt, is expected to close within 45 days, pending regulatory approvals.
Nazara’s Q3 FY25 results showed record operating revenue of Rs 535 crore, up 67% year-on-year, and its highest-ever quarterly EBITDA of Rs 52.4 crore, though net profit declined due to increased investment in growth.