http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118030970Posted: Wed., Jan. 26, 2011, 2:38pm PT
SEE adds 'Calypso' to virtual universe
Co. preps online worlds based on Jackson, U monsters
By Marc Graser
Playcast raises $10 mil in expansion bid
SEE Virtual Worlds, which is readying the launch of online worlds based on Michael Jackson and Universal's classic monsters, has acquired "Planet Calypso" from MindArk as well as the company's virtual worlds developer, First Planet Co., for $6 million.
SEE Virtual Worlds is looking to create an online universe of "planets" that are based on licensed properties and enable consumers to explore with their own digital avatars. It hopes to launch "Planet Michael" as part of that effort by the end of the year."Planet Calypso" was the first world that MindArk launched in 2003 as part of its Entropia Universe and has grown to more than 950,000 registered users. That game enables users to build a human colony on a new alien planet and acquire virtual goods along the way. The game generated $428 million last year.
As part of the purchase, First Planet Co. will be renamed SEE Digital Studios. It will shepherd the creation of "Planet Michael" while continuing to oversee the operation of "Planet Calypso."
The sales will enable MindArk to focus on serving as a platform provider for 3D interactive online entertainment.
Contact Marc Graser at
marc.graser@variety.com 
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