In a statement, Warner Bros. also says it will now have “access to a proprietary digital publishing platform that enables dynamic direct-to-consumer relationships, robust online merchandising opportunities and vibrant e-commerce functionality for online games,” as well as a “social networking platform that can integrate ... self-developed online communities” with third-party social networks. Both, the company says, can be applied to its other businesses.

This is Warner Bros.’ sixth major gaming acquisition. In February, it took a controlling stake in Batman game maker Rocksteady Studios. Other gaming investments have included Midway Games, Snowblind Studios, TT Games, and Monolith Productions. Snowblind, which Warner Bros. bought last year, is developing its Lord of the Rings video games franchise.