Midway Games, which developed the recent “TNA Impact” video game, issued a press release today stating that the company has filed for Chapter 11 for its U.S. operations.
The release does note that the “TNA Impact” game shipped one million units, but that does not mean one million units were sold all together.
This does not come as a surprise considering the headlines regarding the company in the last few months. Sources in TNA were said to be aware the filing was coming and a sequel to “TNA Impact” remains on schedule.
Here is the full release:
Midway’s U.S. Operations File for Chapter 11 Reorganization
Company notes strong underlying fundamentals, but cites recent change in control as the key trigger in need for planned, orderly reorganization
Midway’s European operations are unaffected and continue business as normal
CHICAGO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Midway Games Inc. (NYSE:MWY) today announced that the company and its U.S. subsidiaries filed voluntary petitions in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. The filing does not include the company’s non-U.S. operations, which will continue business as normal.
In its filing with the Bankruptcy Court, the company cited that the November 28, 2008, change in ownership triggered accelerated repurchase obligations relating to two classes of Midway debt, which Midway anticipated it would be unable to satisfy.
?This was a difficult but necessary decision,? said Midway Chairman, President and CEO Matt Booty. ?We have been focused on realigning our operations and improving our execution, and this filing will relieve the immediate pressure from our creditors and provide us time for an orderly exploration of our strategic alternatives. This Chapter 11 filing is the next logical step in an ongoing process to address our capital structure.?
?Midway enters this process with strong underlying fundamentals, as evidenced by solid fourth quarter sales that exceeded expectations in spite of a challenging retail and general economic environment,? Booty added. ?Overall, Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe sales are approaching two million units shipped, TNA iMPACT! has shipped approximately one million units, and our Game Party franchise has sold close to three million units in total.?
Midway expects that Chapter 11 protection will enable the company to conduct its business operations as usual. To that end, Midway is seeking approval from the court for a variety of First Day Motions enabling the company to continue managing its operations in the ordinary course. These motions are typical of the restructuring process, and approval is regularly granted.
About Midway
Midway Games Inc. (NYSE:MWY), headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with offices throughout the world, is a leading developer and publisher of interactive entertainment software for major videogame systems and personal computers. More information about Midway and its products can be found at www.midway.com.