The Australian games industry loses much as THQ Asia Pacific shuts doors
It is with great sadness that I report on the news, originally broken by MCV Pacific, that the THQ Asia Pacific offices in Melbourne are to be closed down in a process which will span several months.
THQ’s sales and distribution business will be passed to All Interactive Entertainment in a move which, according to Ian Curran – THQ EVP Global Publishing – will:
“…allow us [THQ] to increase our reach with a lower cost model. AIE is a trusted business partner with whom we have worked with for many years as our distributor in New Zealand.”
THQ’s Asia Pacific’s shut down is AIE’s gain it seems, but I can’t help but think of the 18 staff members whom Games Industry International have reported are affected by the decision.
There has been a lot of discussion surrounding the viability of companies establishing and managing offices within Australia recently, and with each announcement of company office shutdowns and job losses this viability takes a hit. Australia may not be a large market when considered alongside North America and Europe, but we are a passionate market of industry professionals and gamers and these decisions do have widespread repercussions.
I would like to extend my thoughts to all those affected by this news. Through my work at Save Game, I have had the pleasure of speaking with the staff at THQ Asia Pacific, and they are an absolutely amazing team of people who didn’t just spout community involvement but embodied it. News of THQ Asia Pacific’s closure isn’t just a blow to the Australian games industry – it’s also a blow to the games community which THQ Asia Pacific were so supportive of. The team at THQ AP were dedicated not just to their products, series’ and brands, but were dedicated to sharing and celebrating their work with the games community. Their passion, professionalism, and community engagement and support was unmatched. It may seem odd to say in light of this news, but this was a company who were doing community involvement right, and I know there are many community-focused websites and publications who would wholeheartedly agree with that statement.
It is a sad day for the games industry in Australia, for with THQ Asia Pacific’s closing we have lost a great deal. I extend my thoughts and prayers to all those affected by this news and am sure that whilst this is shattering for those involved, the passion, dedication and professionalism of all those who worked at THQ Asia Pacific will guarantee they will move on to bigger and brighter undertakings.
I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all those I spoke with at THQ Asia Pacific – you were always professional, helpful and answered any questions or queries promptly and exhaustively. With respect to community involvement, you were one of the most pro-active and supportive companies. You will always be remembered by myself as being one of the first companies to embrace Save Game and support us through extending invitations to community events.
Thank you for everything. Congratulations on all that you achieved. Good luck for the future.
Sources: MCV Pacific and Games Industry International
