Microsoft in talks to acquire Massive

Microsoft Corp is in talks to acquire Massive Inc, a company that inserts advertising into video games.

Microsoft Corp is in talks to acquire Massive Inc, a company that inserts advertising into video games, according to people familiar with the deal.
The deal could boost Microsoft's efforts to enter the business of selling advertising, a key part of its bid to better compete with online giants such as Google Inc and Yahoo Inc.

HT Image

Two people with knowledge of the matter said that Microsoft and Massive are in discussions but that a deal has not yet been signed. The people spoke on condition that they not be named because the talks are confidential.

One person familiar with the plans said the deal is expected to be valued at $200 million to $400 million.

The person said the deal is expected to be unveiled at Microsoft's online marketing and advertising conference, taking place next week at its headquarters in Redmond, Washington. During the conference, the company is likely to tout Microsoft adCenter, its platform for selling all types of advertising online.

The Microsoft-Massive deal was first reported by The Wall Street Journal.