Turner To Sell GameTap

Time Warner says that GameTap parent Turner has decided to sell the subscription and ad-based PC gaming service. The parent media company's second quarter financial results released this morning showed an $18 million writeoff credited to the decision. "There is considerable marketplace interest in the GameTap business and brand," said a Turner spokesperson of the pending sale. "We are considering various strategic options, but have reached no final agreement as yet. When there is a resolution, we will announce it." GameTap, known for its efforts in favor of episodic game content, distributes a variety of titles digitally, like Telltale's Sam & Max adventure games - with a subscription alongside free, ad-supported titles and now also digital PC game retail purchases. Recently, it also launched the American McGee's Grimm series on the service, and partnered with THQ to distribute the publisher's PC titles online. However, GameTap also recently closed the doors on its editorial division to focus on its core business; just last month, it also shunted the popular but embattled Myst Online: Uru Live back to its creator, Cyan Worlds. [The preceding was updated from an earlier report, and now adds confirmation and comment from Turner.]