http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9848&Itemid=59

By Kris Graft

 Despite recent high-profile M&A activity in the games industry, THQ boss Brian Farrell has said game makers don't need to buy up other companies in order to grow. "M&A is not a required or necessary thing in order to grow," Farrell said, after being asked if THQ is looking into buying smaller studios or publicly listed companies.

Farrell's thoughts on M&A are a bit surprising, considering THQ just recently announced the acquisition of Rise of Nations developer Big Huge Games, and just this week, the acquisition of casual studio Elephant Entertainment.

But although Farrell said mergers and acquisitions "aren't necessary" for a firm to grow, THQ is continuing to keep an eye out for opportunities.

"We are seeing some opportunities in the marketplace given the two transactions going on," he said, referring to the pending Activision Blizzard merger and Electronic Arts' hostile bid for Take-Two.

"It's going to create some opportunities because we are actively looking at every developer, every license out there and with our size now we can be more aggressive than larger, slower firms," he added.

 --------------------------------------------------

They are necessary else you couldn't afford big budget tittles on these new systems.  Just seems silly from a company who merge to say merging is not needed LOL. 

Well he's right. Game companys should seek to grow through organic growth rather than just buying up everyone in sight (points at EA)

Yeah THQ has the greatest growth model. Pointing the finger at acquisitions not being necessary after making two acquisitions themselves. Or maybe a better growth strategy is to have the publisher be a breeding ground for half-assed children's properties to fund half-assed adult oriented games. Yup, great strategies.