Nazara buys children’s interactive entertainment company WildWorks

Nazara Technologies, an Indian gaming and sports media company, has acquired WildWorks, an American children’s interactive entertainment company, in an all-cash deal worth $10.4 million.

Established in 2003, WildWorks is a game studio focused on the children’s market for the 8-12 age group. Its mobile apps are claimed to have drawn more than 150 million players.

WildWorks had developed a game called Animal Jam, which is said to be an online playground for kids that is available on iOS and Android mobile devices along with Mac and PC computers. Animal Jam features world building and multiplayer games and is said to offer free STEAM-oriented educational content that players can get in the app and via the AJ Academy website.

Nitish Mittersain — Nazara Technologies Founder and MD said: “With its strong brand presence and talented Utah-based development team, WildWorks enables us to solidify our leadership position in the gamified learning space for kids.

“The 8-12 player demographic of Animal Jam builds on the success of our Kiddopia early learning product for kids 2-7, extending our reach with families while maintaining our focus on high quality educational content. Successful brand partnerships like Tag with Ryan also showcase the potential for leveraging the WildWorks platform in new categories.”

Last year, WildWorks had revenues of $13.8 million.

Nazara Technologies expects WildWorks to expand into new products as well as territories in 2023 and beyond following its ownership.

Two of WildWorks’ original founders — CEO Clark Stacey and COO Jeff Amis will continue with the children’s interactive entertainment company in their present roles and steer its next stage of growth under the “Friends of Nazara” network, said Nazara Technologies.

Clark Stacey said: “Joining Nazara enables a new phase of growth and international reach for WildWorks and our games.

“Our company goal has always been ‘Fun with Substance.’ So, of paramount importance for us, was finding a partner who shared our commitment to improving kids’ lives through play and earning the trust of parents. We immediately resonated with the Nazara team and respect the commitment they’ve already made to kids through Paper Boat Apps and Kiddopia.

“We’re joining a great family, and I think our player community will be ecstatic with the results.”