Gamigo Opening U.S. Office In NYC

Hamburg, Germany-based MMO publisher Gamigo announced plans to enter the North American online gaming market by opening its first international office in New York City during the second quarter of 2010. The company, a subsidiary of European newspaper publisher Axel Springer AG, operates several free-to-play MMOs across the Atlantic, including Fiesta Online, Snowbound, and Neosteam. It says establishing a U.S. office will enable the firm to contact and collaborate with its local business and media partners directly. Founded in 2000 and acquired by Axel Springer AG in 2008, Gamigo has enjoyed much success and growth in the past twelve months as its employee count more than tripled and its sales increased by 233 percent. The publisher says it's one of the fastest growing companies in the online gaming market, and claims it's in the top three in its market segment. "This New York office is a continuation of our international expansion," says Patrick Streppel, an executive member of Gamigo's board of directors. "Thanks to the experience we have gained over the past few years in Europe, we are very well-equipped to tackle the North American market. Top-quality products planned for global publication will be announced and presented at the GDC."