Games Thirst – Amazing Life
Rumors having been swirling around the internet claiming that THQ’s erased its entire 2012 lineup as it tries to become more attractive to potential buyers. The firm, however, has flatly denied these talks, adding that the reports have been outrageously exaggerated.
The rumors claimed THQ was in big trouble after poor sales of uDraw drawing tablet and Saints Row: The Third, the latter being released in an overcrowded holiday season market, and that 2012 was looking just as bad for the publisher, forcing it to scrap its lineup for the year.
“THQ has not cancelled its 2014 line-up, and has not made any decisions regarding the planned MMO,” said THQ Australia in a statement.
As part of the ongoing review of our business, we have made decisions to ensure that the company is strategically addressing the most attractive markets. As we have previously announced, we have dramatically reduced our commitment to the kids’ boxed games sector which leads to a significantly more focused release schedule moving forward. Our slate for calendar 2012 and beyond is focused on high-quality core games and continues to build our digital platform and business. We are excited for our pipeline of original and high-quality content along with our relationships with some of the best talent in the industry.
Additionally, we are thrilled with the great performance of Saints Row: The Third, which on a like for like period in North America has tripled in sell-through from Saints Row 2. In addition, WWE ’12’s worldwide sell-through sales are up almost 40% year-over-year for the same sales period with fewer platforms. According to NPD, for the month of December and the 2011 year, THQ was the #5 publisher overall, #4 third party, with reported sell through growing over 18% in a market that was down almost 6%. And coming up next, we have two great titles for the first half of the year including UFC Undisputed 3 and Darksiders 2.”
So at least for now, THQ isn’t shelving its 2012 lineup, nor is the firm about to shut down. The rumors are just that, rumors.
