Strategy First acquires Malfador Machinations

[Atrocities]

You have to consider that Aaron is not a stupid man, if he went into this deal with his eyes wide open, and you can bet he did, then you can trust that he has covered his bases quite nicely.

Aaron stated that he is going to get some resources from SFI to help with both SE V and SE VI. The fact that SE VI is even being mentioned means that there is already enough pre-sale interest in SE V to warrent thinking ahead.

Even if SFI goes under, I am certain that Aaron has protected his right to re-aquire the rights to the SE franchise. (I know that I would dictate specific and harsh terms if payment is not made for any aspect of my contract.)

Given the sad events that transpired between SD and SFI, I will wager that Aaron has taken all precautionary measures to enusre himself and his legacy.

As to SFI, it appears to me that they are trying to make a go of it but are kind of rudderless as to how to re-invent themselves. I agree the first step would be to pull the games that are not selling from the market, and focus on the games that are selling. Secondly keep their word when it comes to information regarding release dates. The fact that they kept pushing the store release of SEIV Deluxe back could have been because their internet sales were rocking. Given the statements made about the Malfador purchase, this might have been the case. ("Hey guys, this space empires game is selling like mad. Perhaps we should buy the company and control the rights?")

I am on the side of lets give SFI the benefit of the doubt. Lets see if they can pick up the peaces and move forward. They certainly are no Shrapnel Games, but who knows, perhaps with Aaron on board, they might one day accend to the level of Shrapnel. (Not that SFI is a bad company, they just have to prove themselves again after the bankruptcy and Stardock scandel.)

As to Shrapnel, I love this site, and I do hope that they continue to inspire the independant game developers into making more and more exciting new games. Thanks for putting up with us, and thanks for being there for us.

[mrscrogg]

how many times have we worked for a co . that either got new management or was bought out . " your job is safe ! we're making no changes !" YA RIGHT ! they suck you dry for your knowledge or until they can put their own people in place and you find yourself with no job and tryingto explain to wife and kids what happened . Aaron beware ! make sure the check clears and you have a iron tight contract

[Suicide Junkie]

Well, in this case, there is only one employee, and he's the management.

[Azselendor]

I hope aaron made sure all his bases were covered and took precautions and I wish him the best of luck, but I still don't trust Strategy First.

Hopefully Aaron can influence them to a better course.

[mrscrogg]

It does'nt seem like Strategy First has the best of records - why did Aaron shop himself around a bit more if he was going to sell ?

[Rollo]

Who says he didn't?

And btw, after working with S1st for quite some time now I think Aaron probably has a better insight and more informed opinion of them than most people who make up their minds on pure internet hearsay.

[Azselendor]

Contract may have given Strategy First first-bid option, but who knows.

[Atrocities]

Rollo said:
Who says he didn't?

And btw, after working with S1st for quite some time now I think Aaron probably has a better insight and more informed opinion of them than most people who make up their minds on pure internet hearsay.

Well said.

[President_Elect_Shang]

No offensive but on the limited info I have I would place my money on Mr. Brooks opinion. That is with the guy that has game design and publishing experience.

My interest in this discussion (before anyone asks) is obvious. The outcome of this move by MM will affect the future of a game I enjoy so much! I certainly wish MM and Aaron the best of luck, and I hope that he has taken steps to prevent the demise of his company or the commercialization of the SE line.