March 6^th, 2006 (12:50pm) - THQ today announced it has expanded its global studio system by acquiring its first European-based development studio, Juice Games Ltd. The UK-based studio has recently developed the arcade racer Juiced for the PS2, Xbox and PC, and is hopes to redefine the handheld racing genre by bringing the franchise to the PSP in Summer 2006 with the PSP exclusive, Juiced: Eliminator.

Under the terms of the deal, THQ has purchased the entire share capital of Juice Games. Colin Bell, formerly Juice Games’ managing director, will assume the role of general manager.

"This acquisition highlights THQ’s strategy to work with the very brightest development talent from around the world," said Dan Kelly, senior vice president of business development, THQ Inc. "The Juiced franchise has shipped over one and a half million units so far, a tribute to the talent and passion of the award-winning team at Juice Games. We look forward to the studio bringing more ground-breaking games to the Juiced franchise as well as developing new intellectual properties."

"The decision to partner with THQ reflects the great relationship we have established over the past two years," said Colin Bell, general manager, Juice Games. "Joining THQ marks an exciting step forward for us and will enable us to do what we do best -- develop cutting edge, innovative games."

Juice Games won Best New UK/European Studio in Develop’s 2005 Excellence Awards, and their first title, Juiced, topped the All-Format charts in the UK.