Viacom’s MTV Networks is acquiring Cambridge, Mass.-based Harmonix Music Systems, the music-oriented video game developer, for $175 million; according the NYT, the announcement is expected Friday. Harmonix titles include PS2 games Guitar Hero—a guitar simulator—and Amplitude as well as a line of kareoke games. MTV president Christina Norman told the Times the company will be used to offer visitors on its varied platforms the chance to play along with or remix songs. Founders CEO Alex Rigopulos and CTO Eran Egozy are staying.
-- The acquisition falls within the high end of the range new Viacom CEO Philipe Dauman has mentioned for deals.