Kayak buys Synergenix; deal links US, Swedish mobile publishers

Mobile-games publisher Kayak Interactive announced today that it has acquired Sweden-based Synergenix Interactive, another publisher of games for mobile devices. Synergenix will become a wholly owned subsidiary of the new company, which will operate under the Kayak Interactive banner.

Synergenix has a strong portfolio of games, including recent and upcoming titles such as Conflict: Vietnam, Carmageddon, Highlander, and Reservoir Dogs. It also created the Mophun engine to rival Java and Brew. Kayak's product roster includes Pub Pool Online and the forthcoming Bill Dance Bass Fishing, as well as Kayak Live, a platform for Java and Brew games.

Keith McCurdy will continue as president and CEO of Kayak. Martin Forsling, currently CEO of Synergenix Interactive, will become managing director of Europe for Kayak Interactive and will operate as CEO of the Synergenix subsidiary.

Kayak Interactive has struck deals with more than 40 carriers and 10 handset producers to distribute current and future games into North America, Europe, and Asia, according to the company. "Kayak and Synergenix are an ideal match," McCurdy said. "The new combined company is well positioned to be a major player."

The new Kayak will maintain its headquarters in San Mateo, while Synergenix will keep its office in Stockholm. Some Synergenix staffers will join Kayak teams in Princeton, New Jersey, and at a new operation opening soon in Beijing.