Tokyo-based third party publisher AQ Interactive today announced plans to merge with development company Headlock. By joining forces with the developers of PC-based MMORPGs such as Emil Chronicle Online, Bell Isle and Pandora Saga, AQ aims to build an organization capable of effectively developing multiplatform (online) games. As part of the deal, AQ is to acquire 350 shares or an 8.1% stake in Headlock by the end of the month. Thereby, the former will become the third largest shareholder of the latter company.

While Headlock is known for PC-based online games like the ones mentioned above, the three development studios under AQ's umbrella, Cavia (Drakengard, Dragon Quest Shounen Yangus to Fushigi no Dungeon), Artoon (Away: Shuffle Dungeon, Blue Dragon) and Feel Plus (Lost Odyssey) have thus far concentrated their efforts on offline games.

• Famitsu