PopCap Games empire buys Gastronaut Studios

The ruthless PopCap Games cartel has made Gastronaut Studios an offer (casually, 'cause that's how they roll) it couldn't refuse, acquiring the company through subtle intimidation and an undisclosed cache of treasures from its money bin. Gastronaut is the developer behind XBLA titles Small Arms and the upcoming Gel: Set & Match.

PopCap now controls all of Gastronaut's assets, tech and employees, who will begin working on "several undisclosed projects." Gastronaut's founders will retain the rights to Small Arms and Gel. Meanwhile, PopCap is set to release its most psychologically addictive title to date, Peggle, on several platforms soon. Teach your parents about Peggle early -- or prepare to lose them to its sinister grasp.