The Stinger Report

The Stinger Report

Confusion Hides Red Faces
The most covered subject in amusement currently, the Stinger Report (TSR) hopes to give a clear and comprehensive view of what has actually happened in the 'On again Off again' merger negotiations surrounding SEGA, Sammy and Namco.

TSR goes into details on the three front runners and how the recent announcement of the dismissal of Sammy by the SEGA board could see Namco re-present a merger package and the possibility of a side door investment proposal from consumer software into SEGA - all this coming on news of SEGA of America upheavals.

More Confusion Regarding Japanese Developer
Independent Japanese software developer Psikyo has reportedly ceased development operation. But, are the reports accurate? Psikyo was originally fingered in an externally sponsored announcement in a prominent Japanese amusement publication.

It would later be revealed that this announcement was 'erroneous'. TSR has been supplied information that shows that the recent merger of this company with another developer has led to an explosive situation that resulted in to the announcement.

Highnoon for Midway!
Dearly departed - from the amusement sector - Midway showed the success of recent management decisions with a $9.3 million projected loss and the laying off of over 20 members of staff as a result to the cancellation of major projects.

Sources reveal that Midway is considering additional re-organizations following the loss of high budget projects, with a possible regrouping of the operation back to its Chicago routes. The re-re organization weeks after key investors offered finance to address a major cash shortage. The biggest change demanded by investors with the stepping down of the companies CEO, all coming on top of the reappearance of Atari!

New Simulator Attraction Builds Interest
Walt Disney's brand new attraction uses the latest simulator technology, and is scheduled for an October opening. TSR has details on the technology and company behind the attraction, and reveals the additional projects in the wings for EnTCo.

The possibility is that with this Disney attraction a groundswell could be engendered by operators looking for the new technology thrill to entice their audiences. Information in this report includes details of the appearance of new simulator manufacturers hoping to join the fry.

GameWorks on the Menu
As merger mania continues in the consolidating landscape of Out-of-Home entertainment, a favourite focus of TSR observation - GameWorks - has been linked to a possible merger negotiation with a White Knight operations company.

Further information has been scarce on the ground but there is a strong possibility of an announcement within the next few weeks that would see SEGA relieved of their investment into the field of facility operation.

The Stinger Report (in brief) is provided to Highwaygames by Kevin Williams, the publisher of "The Stinger Report". To read the full articles and information, please visit www.thestingerreport.com