Amazon confirms nor denies
The American developer is probably best known because of Killer Instinct, an Xbox One fighting game, built for Microsoft’s newest console. The acquisition gives Amazon a set of talented programmers and designers and clearly signals Amazon’s intent to penetrate the gaming industry.
It also feeds the rumours that Amazon is building its own Android-based console. Considering its experience with the proprietary Kindle, it looks likely to become a competitor for other mobile platforms. It is therefore unlikely Amazon will pick a fight with Sony (PlayStation), Nintendo (Wii U) and Microsoft (Xbox), focussing on Apple’s iPad instead.
Amazon has already tried to develop games, mostly geared towards the ‘social games’, under the Amazon Game Studios banner. Coincidentally (or not), this company branch is located in the same region as Double Helix Games. Amazon had a short statement concerning the purchase: “Amazon has acquired Double Helix as part of our ongoing commitment to build innovative games for customers.”