Earlier today, we reported that Electronic Arts had dismissed
Jack Thompson's offer to help with its acquisition of rival publisher Take-Two. Just minutes ago, we were forwarded Jack Thompson's response to the brush off.
In the letter, which is addressed to Electronic Arts CEO John Riccitiello and the board of directors, Thompson said that "
I have not yet received but have seen news reports of your Senior Manager Mariam Sughayer's communication to me regarding the above.
"
Assuming the reports are accurate, since they don't emanate from the New York Times, please note:
I have in the last few days been contacted by a company with whom Take-Two does business. This company is now my client," he continued.
My client informs me that Take-Two has breached a substantial contract with it. It appears based upon what my client tells me that this is how Take-Two does business within the industry. This does not surprise me, as I have seen this same company up-close for a number of years. But it is surely gratifying to get corroboration of my observations, out of the blue, from a corporate entity which has been stiffed by Take-Two and which must take legal action, it seems, to get recompense. How sweet.
If you all at EA want to pursue a purchase of Take-Two without fully knowing what is “out there” in the form of liabilities, posed by my client and others, of your take-over target, you got right ahead. I’m sure EA’s shareholders will be impressed with your lack of “due diligence” exhibited first by your “don’t help us, Mr. Thompson” and now your anticipated “we don’t want to know about contractual liabilities of Take-Two” posture. Maybe the new corporate logo of EA should incorporate an ostrich. Here’s some help:
Your corporate approach to due diligence exhibits the type of circle-the-wagons acumen that is leading the video game industry to the federal regulation that ESA’s own leaked poll indicates 65% of Americans want.
Congratulations. Your response, which was anticipated, does not disappoint.
Regards, Jack Thompson"
Jack's response doesn't disappoint either - the image made me spill my tea (thanks, Jack!). It'll be interesting to see how this story develops. Do you think Jack is barking up the right tree, or should EA continue with its attempts to purchase Take-Two? Let us know
in the forums.
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