Hits-focused social gaming company Zynga Inc. has bought the developer of “Draw Something,” a mobile app that’s been downloaded more than 35 million times since its release six weeks ago, the Wall Street Journal reported.
Zynga purchased OMGPOP Inc., a 40-person outfit in New York, for between $200 million and $250 million, according to the Wall Street Journal. It’s the biggest acquisition to date for the San Francisco-based company, which makes Facebook games like "FarmVille" and "Mafia Wars.”
More from GlobalPost: Zynga launches website for gamers away from Facebook
"The OMGPOP team has created a game that's fun, expressive and engenders real social interaction," Zynga CEO Mark Pincus said in a statement, the San Francisco Chronicle reported. "Draw Something has captured the imagination of millions of people around the world. We love the way they've worked playful and relevant culture into their games from Devo to Daft Punk, from Lin to Beckham."
Zynga Chief Mobile Officer David Ko said Zynga was not just interested in acquiring “Draw Something,” but also the talents of OMGPOP’s developers, the Wall Street Journal reported. In the past, competitors have accused Zynga of copying their popular apps, the San Francisco Chronicle reported.
“Draw Something” is the No. 1 word game in 84 countries, according to data from Apple Inc.’s application store, the Wall Street Journal reported. In the game, players draw images on their iPhone, iPad or Android devices based on selected words.
More from GlobalPost: New India’s old problem
There is no paywall on the story you just read because a community of dedicated listeners and readers have contributed to keep the global news you rely on free and accessible for all. Will you join the 319 donors who have supported The World so far? From now until Dec. 31, your gift will help us unlock a $67,000 match. Donate today to double your impact!