ESA Adds 505 Games North American Division

U.S. trade association Entertainment Software Association announced the North American division of London-based publisher 505 Games as the newest addition to its roster. 505 Games is the third studio to join the trade body -- which represents the interests of computer and video game companies -- this year, following publishers Natsume and Southpeak. Its enrollment brings the ESA's total membership count to 23, those companies including Electronic Arts, Konami, Eidos, and many others. Launched in 2008, the North American arm has published games such as Wii Cheer and Hotel for Dogs. It is also working on a multi-platform title based on Olympian swimmer and 14-time gold medalist Michael Phelps. 505 Games' focus is on titles integrating family-friendly brands, taking advantage of partnerships with Discovery Kids, Warner Bros., and IMG/Fashion Week. “505 Games joins a diverse group of entertainment software companies all working toward the same goals,” says ESA CEO Michael D. Gallagher. “We are glad we can add 505 Games’ creativity and ideas to the ESA's efforts to promote the computer and video game industry.”