MS to buy game designer

Microsoft will buy computer game designer BigPark for an undisclosed amount, as it pushes its strategy of producing exclusive games for its Xbox entertainment system.

Microsoft has already been working with Vancouver, Canada-based BigPark over the past year on a game for the Xbox, but has so far announced no details. More information is expected at the video game industry's annual E3 Expo in June.

BigPark, founded in 2007 by former executives of Electronic Arts and Distinctive Software, will become part of Microsoft Game Studios.

One of BigPark's co-founders, Don Mattrick, became senior vice-president of Microsoft's Interactive Entertainment Business in July 2007.