Editing THQ

{{Short description|American video game company}}
{{About|the defunct American video game company}}
{{Use American English|date=November 2018}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=November 2018}}
{{Infobox company
| name = THQ Inc.
| logo = THQ logo 2011.svg
| logo_caption = Final logo, used from 2011 to 2013
| type = [[Public company|Public]]
| traded_as = {{Unbulleted list|{{NASDAQ was|THQI}} (1991–2012)|{{OTC Pink was|THQIQ}} (2012–2013)}}
| ISIN = {{ISIN|sl=n|pl=y|US8724434035}}
| industry = [[Video game industry|Video games]]
| fate = [[Chapter 11, Title 11, United States Code|Chapter 11 bankruptcy]]
| founded = {{Start date and age|1990|04}}<ref name="LA Times 1991">{{cite news |title=THQ's Video-Game Success Comes With Betting on Winners |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1991-12-24-fi-936-story.html |work=[[Los Angeles Times]] |access-date=May 1, 2022 |date=December 24, 1991 |first=James F. |last=Peltz |archive-date=July 16, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140716232252/http://articles.latimes.com/1991-12-24/business/fi-936_1_video-game-market |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Founding">{{cite web |url=http://investor.thq.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=96376&p=irol-IRHome |title=Investor Relations |website=THQ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081216150054/http://investor.thq.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=96376&p=irol-IRHome |archive-date=December 16, 2008 |url-status=dead}}</ref> in [[Calabasas, California]], US
| founder = [[Jack Friedman]]
| defunct = {{End date and age|2013|01|23}}
| hq_location_city = [[Agoura Hills, California]]
| hq_location_country = US
| area_served = Worldwide
| key_people = {{Unbulleted list|Brian Farrell ([[chairman]], [[Chief executive officer|CEO]])|[[Jason Rubin]] ([[President (corporate title)|president]])}}
| products = {{Collapsible list
|''[[Bratz#Video games|Bratz]]'' series
|''[[Company of Heroes]]'' series
|''[[Darksiders]]'' series
|''[[De Blob]]'' series
|''[[Destroy All Humans!]]'' series
|''[[MX vs. ATV]]'' series
|''[[Red Faction]]'' series
|''[[Saints Row]]'' series
|''[[SpongeBob SquarePants video games|SpongeBob SquarePants]]'' series
|''[[List of Games Workshop video games#Warhammer 40,000|Warhammer 40,000]]'' series
|''[[WWE 2K|WWE]]'' series
}}
}}

'''THQ Inc.''' was an American [[video game industry|video game]] company based in [[Agoura Hills, California]]. It was founded in April 1990 by [[Jack Friedman]], originally in [[Calabasas, California|Calabasas]], and became a [[public company]] the following year through a [[reverse merger takeover]]. Initially working in the toy business, it expanded into the video game business through several acquisitions before shifting its focus away from toys entirely. THQ continued its trend of acquiring companies throughout the 2000s.

The company published both internally created and externally [[Brand licensing|licensed]] content in its product [[Portfolio (finance)|portfolio]]. THQ's internally created game series included ''[[Darksiders]]'', ''[[De Blob]]'', ''[[Destroy All Humans!]]'', ''[[MX vs. ATV]]'', ''[[Red Faction]]'', and ''[[Saints Row]]'', among others. The company also held exclusive, long-term licensing agreements with [[sport]]s and [[entertainment]] content creators, such as [[The Walt Disney Company|Disney]], [[DreamWorks Animation]], [[Nickelodeon]], and [[WWE]].

After years of financial struggles, stock value drop, and [[debt]], THQ filed for [[Chapter 11, Title 11, United States Code|Chapter 11 bankruptcy]] in December 2012 and commenced [[liquidation]] of its assets the following month. Several properties were [[auction]]ed to other companies, while the remaining staff were laid off. The "THQ" trademark was eventually acquired by developer [[Embracer Group|Nordic Games]] (which had also acquired some of THQ's auctioned-off properties) in 2014 and assumed the name "[[THQ Nordic]]" in 2016, while continuing a variety of their franchises under said name.

== History ==
=== Background and foundation (1990–1999) ===
THQ Inc. was founded by [[LJN]] co-founder [[Jack Friedman]] in April 1990.<ref name="LA Times 1991" /><ref name="Founding" /> "THQ" is an [[initialism]] for "Toy Headquarters".<ref name="LA Times 1991" /> THQ acquired New Ventures, a division of [[Broderbund]], in September 1990.<ref>{{cite news |last=Carlsen |first=Clifford |title=Broderbund Software Inc. jettisons Nintendo, games. (THQ Inc. buys New Ventures division from Broderbund) |url=http://www.accessmylibrary.com/article-1G1-8921768/broderbund-software-inc-jettisons.html |newspaper=[[San Francisco Business Times]] |access-date=November 10, 2012 |date=September 10, 1990 |archive-date=January 27, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130127162001/http://www.accessmylibrary.com/article-1G1-8921768/broderbund-software-inc-jettisons.html |url-status=live}}</ref> In 1991, Trinity Acquisition Corp, a [[NASDAQ]]-listed [[special-purpose acquisition company]] (SPAC), agreed to acquire and merge with THQ in a [[reverse merger takeover]].<ref name="LA Times 1991" /> The deal was a [[stock swap]] valued at about $33&nbsp;million, with THQ's shareholders owning 51.7% of the new entity.<ref>{{cite news |title=N.Y. Company to Acquire Game Firm in Stock Swap |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1991-05-21-fi-2372-story.html |work=[[Los Angeles Times]] |access-date=May 1, 2022 |date=May 21, 1991 |archive-date=July 14, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714165106/http://articles.latimes.com/1991-05-21/business/fi-2372_1_stock-swap |url-status=live}}</ref> THQ's name was retained for the new company, its ticker symbol was changed to "THQI", and Friedman was named as its president.<ref name="LA Times 1991" /> THQ then acquired video game developer Black Pearl Software of Chicago in 1993.<ref>{{cite news |title=THQ Inc. to Acquire Black Pearl Software |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1993-06-08-fi-919-story.html |work=[[Los Angeles Times]] |access-date=May 1, 2022|date=March 8, 1993 |archive-date=December 6, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131206182518/http://articles.latimes.com/1993-06-08/business/fi-919_1_black-pearl-software |url-status=live}}</ref> Following the acquisition, THQ would use the Black Pearl Software name for their Sega games, while the Malibu Games name would be used for the Nintendo games.

THQ withdrew completely from the toy business in 1994 to focus solely on video game production.<ref name="THQ history">{{cite web |title=Investor Relations |url=http://investor.thq.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=96376&p=irol-faq |website=THQ.Inc |access-date=November 9, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130827064528/http://investor.thq.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=96376&p=irol-faq |archive-date=August 27, 2013 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Around the same time, the company entered into a deal with [[Electronic Arts]] to license five titles for various consoles.<ref>{{Cite magazine |date=June 1994 |title=ProNews |pages=186 |magazine=[[GamePro]] |url=https://retrocdn.net/images/b/bf/GamePro_US_059.pdf |access-date=September 20, 2023}}</ref> Jack Friedman then left the company in 1995 to co-found the toy manufacturer [[Jakks Pacific]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Nelson |first=Valerie J. |title=Jack Friedman dies at 70; toy maker |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2010-may-06-la-me-jack-friedman-20100506-story.html |work=[[Los Angeles Times]] |access-date=May 1, 2022|date=May 6, 2010 |archive-date=March 15, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120315013236/http://articles.latimes.com/2010/may/06/local/la-me-jack-friedman-20100506 |url-status=live}}</ref>

At the Winter CES 1995, THQ signed an expanded deal with [[Electronic Arts]] to develop games for their 16-bit and 8-bit home consoles and handheld titles.<ref>{{Cite news|date=1995-01-04|title=Press release: 1995-01-04: T-HQ shows new lineup of portable video games and XBAND video game modem at 1995 Winter CES|work=The Free Library}}</ref> From then on, the Black Pearl Software name would be used for 8-bit and 16-bit games, while THQ introduced the Kokopeli Digital Studios brand name for their 32-bit games.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kokopeli Digital Studios|url=https://www.mobygames.com/company/kokopeli-digital-studios|access-date=2021-11-17|website=MobyGames|archive-date=November 17, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211117022812/https://www.mobygames.com/company/kokopeli-digital-studios|url-status=live}}</ref>

In 1997, THQ was reincorporated as a [[Delaware General Corporation Law|Delaware Corporation]],<ref name="THQ history" /> and in 1999 acquired San Jose video game developer [[Pacific Coast Power & Light]].<ref>{{cite news |title=San Jose Game Developer Now Subsidiary of THQ |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1999-jun-01-me-43070-story.html |work=[[Los Angeles Times]] |access-date=May 1, 2022|date=June 1, 1999 |archive-date=March 7, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140307235936/http://articles.latimes.com/1999/jun/01/local/me-43070 |url-status=live}}</ref>

In June 1998, the company entered into a ten-year 50/50 joint venture with Jakks Pacific (entitled THQ/Jakks Pacific LLC) to acquire the [[WWE|WWF]] (later WWE) video game license, previously held by [[Acclaim Entertainment]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/1999/04/08/life-after-attitude | title=Life After Attitude | date=April 8, 1999 }}</ref> The deal, which would begin in October 1999, would correspond with two titles per year that THQ would handle product development and sales for.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1998-jun-16-fi-60559-story.html | title=THQ, Jakks Team for Wrestling Video Games | website=[[Los Angeles Times]] | date=June 16, 1998 }}</ref> 

In 1999, it signed a deal to publish ''[[Power Rangers]]'' video games.<ref>{{Cite web|date=1999-07-08|title=THQ Grabs Old Power Rangers by the Cane|work=IGN|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/1999/07/08/thq-grabs-old-power-rangers-by-the-cane|access-date=2022-05-01|archive-date=November 17, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211117023013/https://www.ign.com/articles/1999/07/08/thq-grabs-old-power-rangers-by-the-cane|url-status=live}}</ref> Also that year, it signed a licensing agreement with British game developer [[Codemasters]] to bring their titles to their handheld market.<ref>{{Cite web|title=THQ TO DEVELOP TWO MICRO MACHINE TITLES FOR GAME BOY.|url=https://www.thefreelibrary.com/THQ+TO+DEVELOP+TWO+MICRO+MACHINE+TITLES+FOR+GAME+BOY-a054665488|access-date=2021-11-17|website=Free Online Library|archive-date=November 17, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211117023222/https://www.thefreelibrary.com/THQ+TO+DEVELOP+TWO+MICRO+MACHINE+TITLES+FOR+GAME+BOY-a054665488|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Company growth and acquisitions (2000–2009)===
[[File:THQ logo.svg|thumb|Former logo, used from 2000 to 2011]]
In February 2000, THQ faced a class action lawsuit over a violation of federal security laws due to nondisclosure of material information.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Spector,+Roseman+and+Kodroff,+P.C.+Announces+Class+Action+Lawsuit...-a059580646 |title=Spector, Roseman and Kodroff, P.C. Announces Class Action Lawsuit Against THQ, INC. |date=February 20, 2000 |access-date=July 12, 2013 |archive-date=February 1, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140201162602/http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Spector,+Roseman+and+Kodroff,+P.C.+Announces+Class+Action+Lawsuit...-a059580646 |url-status=live}}</ref> In September of the same year, the company expanded its internal product development capabilities with the acquisition of [[Volition (company)|Volition]] located in [[Champaign, Illinois]]. Since then, THQ's internal studio system grew to eleven studios across the globe with distinct capabilities across all viable gaming platforms. Some of these studios, such as [[Relic Entertainment]], [[Vigil Games]], [[Blue Tongue Entertainment]], Juice Games, [[Kaos Studios]] and [[Volition (company)|Volition]], worked on games for next generation consoles as well as PCs. THQ went on to acquire [[Vigil Games]] in 2006.<ref>{{cite web |title=THQ Announces Acquisition of Vigil Games |url=http://investor.thq.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=96376&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=832692 |website=THQ |access-date=November 10, 2012 |date=March 16, 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190902002938/http://investor.thq.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=96376&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=832692 |archive-date=September 2, 2019 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

In 2000, THQ signed a deal with [[Fox Interactive]] to bring five of the titles to the [[Game Boy Color]] market, such as the ''[[Croc: Legend of the Gobbos|Croc]]'' franchise.<ref>{{Cite web|title=THQ and Fox Partner for the Game Boy|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/thq-and-fox-partner-for-the-game-boy/1100-2541880/|access-date=2021-11-17|website=GameSpot|language=en-US|archive-date=August 20, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150820193208/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/thq-and-fox-partner-for-the-game-boy/1100-2541880/|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2001, THQ obtained an extended agreement with [[Nickelodeon]] to produce video games based on their franchises, as well as computer game rights to ''[[Rugrats]]'', ''[[SpongeBob SquarePants]]'' and ''[[Rocket Power]]'' and console and computer rights to other Nickelodeon shows like ''[[Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius]]'' and ''[[The Wild Thornberrys]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|title=THQ and Nickelodeon expand partnership|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/thq-and-nickelodeon-expand-partnership/1100-2683938/|access-date=2021-11-17|website=GameSpot|language=en-US|archive-date=November 17, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211117000530/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/thq-and-nickelodeon-expand-partnership/1100-2683938/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Nick And THQ Announce New Videogame Development Deal|url=https://www.awn.com/news/nick-and-thq-announce-new-videogame-development-deal|access-date=2021-11-17|website=Animation World Network|language=en|archive-date=November 17, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211117000542/https://www.awn.com/news/nick-and-thq-announce-new-videogame-development-deal|url-status=live}}</ref> The agreement also covered games based on original intellectual properties, such as ''[[Tak and the Power of Juju]]'', with the potential that THQ would release a game first, followed by an animated cartoon on Nickelodeon.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Tran|first=Khanh T. L.|date=2002-02-13|title=Video-Game Maker Turns Its Focus To Kids in Deal With Nickelodeon|work=[[The Wall Street Journal]]|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB101355202461443920|access-date=2021-11-17|issn=0099-9660|archive-date=November 17, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211117000659/https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB101355202461443920|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2004, THQ signed an agreement with [[MGA Entertainment]] to publish video games based on the [[Bratz]] fashion doll line.<ref>{{Cite web|title=THQ signs multi-platform publishing agreement with MGA Entertainment for Bratz|url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/thq-signs-multi-platform-publishing-agreement-with-mga-entertainment-for-bratz|archive-date=December 4, 2023|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20231204031809/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/thq-signs-multi-platform-publishing-agreement-with-mga-entertainment-for-bratz |access-date=2024-05-05|url-status=live|website=GamesIndustry.biz|date=September 24, 2004 |language=en-US}}</ref>

On May 10, 2007, THQ reported its highest annual sales figures and net profits ever for the fiscal year which ended on March 31. THQ's revenues reached over $1 billion. In March 2008, THQ announced the development of the world's first ever cheerleading game using the [[Wii Balance Board]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Dring |first=Christopher |url=https://www.mcvuk.com/business-news/publishing/thq-announces-cheerleading-game/ |title=THQ announces cheerleading game &#124; Games industry news|website=MCV |date=March 7, 2008 |access-date=May 1, 2022 |archive-date=February 18, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090218094319/http://www.mcvuk.com/news/29845/THQ-announces-cheerleading-game |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Dring |first=Christopher |title=THQ announces cheerleading game |url=https://www.mcvuk.com/business-news/publishing/thq-announces-cheerleading-game/ |website=[[MCV (magazine)|MCV]] |access-date=May 1, 2022 |date=March 7, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121022111905/http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/thq-announces-cheerleading-game |archive-date=October 22, 2012 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Not long after, on November 3, 2008, the company closed five of its internal studios: [[Paradigm Entertainment]], [[Mass Media Games|Mass Media Inc.]], [[Helixe]], [[Locomotive Games]], and Sandblast Games.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.shacknews.com/article/55703/thq-closes-five-studios-updated |title=THQ Closes Five Studios |last=Faylor |first=Chris |date=November 3, 2008 |website=ShackNews |access-date=May 1, 2022 |archive-date=December 6, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081206135536/http://www.shacknews.com/onearticle.x/55703 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Ransom-Wiley |first=James |title=THQ reveals 'Significant Business Realignment' |url=https://www.engadget.com/2008-11-05-thq-reveals-significant-business-realignment.html|website=Engadget|access-date=May 1, 2022|date=November 5, 2008 |archive-date=April 1, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090401194106/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/thq-reveals-significant-business-realignment/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
In 2009, huge declines in sales prompted THQ to form a strategic plan to cut $220 million in annual costs by 2010 and invest in "fewer, better bets." Previously in 2007, THQ had a $68-million profit and $1 billion in revenue, which put it within range of their rival [[Activision]]. Many of its big-budget games sold poorly, despite having favorable reviews, as [[2008–2012 global recession|the recession]] hit. Its hold on kids' games based on Nickelodeon television shows and Pixar movies slipped as kids turned to free online games playable on the Internet. With shares down 86% from the previous year and a market value of only $173 million, THQ had the possibility of being acquired by other companies.<ref>{{cite news |last=Pham |first=Alex |title=Video game maker THQ plays defense|url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2009-mar-05-fi-cotown-thq5-story.html |work=[[Los Angeles Times]] |access-date=May 1, 2022 |date=March 5, 2009 |archive-date=November 10, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131110081330/http://articles.latimes.com/2009/mar/05/business/fi-cotown-thq5 |url-status=live}}</ref> In March 2009, THQ spun off [[Heavy Iron Studios]] and [[Incinerator Studios]] as independent companies, and announced it was looking to sell [[Big Huge Games]]. Two months later in May 2009, THQ agreed to sell [[Big Huge Games]] to [[38 Studios]]. In August 2009, THQ acquired Midway Studios San Diego for $200,000. The sale of the studio included all assets, except for the ''[[TNA Impact! (video game)|TNA Impact!]]'' video game.<ref>{{cite web |title=THQ To Obtain Midway's San Diego Studio |url=http://www.gamersdailynews.com/story-12644-THQ-To-Obtain-Midways-San-Diego-Studio.html |website=Gamer Daily News |access-date=August 10, 2009 |date=August 9, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090813143501/http://www.gamersdailynews.com/story-12644-THQ-To-Obtain-Midways-San-Diego-Studio.html |archive-date=August 13, 2009}}</ref> In December 2009, following many lawsuits between the three companies, THQ signed a standalone eight-year deal with the [[WWE]], replacing the THQ/Jakks Pacific joint-venture deal.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://corporate.wwe.com/news/company-news/2009/12-23-2009 | title=THQ, WWE AND Jakks Pacific Announce Settlement of Long-Standing Litigation }}</ref>

===Reorganization, financial struggles (2010–2012)===
In February 2010, THQ announced that Juice Games and Rainbow Studios would be part of a reshuffle, and would now bear the title THQ Digital Warrington and [[Rainbow Studios|THQ Digital Phoenix]], respectively. The merger reportedly led to 60 job losses between THQ's US Rainbow studio and the UK Juice Game's studio.<ref>{{cite web |title=THQ Biggest Loser Works Out for Profit |url=http://news.spong.com/article/20498/THQ-Biggest-Loser-Works-Out-for-Profit |website=SPOnG.com |access-date=February 5, 2010 |date=February 4, 2010 |archive-date=August 28, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200828213423/https://spong.com/article/20498/THQ-Biggest-Loser-Works-Out-for-Profit |url-status=live}}</ref>

In August 2010, THQ unveiled the [[uDraw GameTablet]], a $70 accessory for Nintendo's [[Wii]] console that let gamers draw and play on their television screens. The white, 9-by-7-inch peripheral houses a [[Wii Remote]] on the left, with a doodle pad and tethered stylus on the right. THQ said more software for the uDraw would launch every couple of months.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thestar.com/entertainment/2010/08/27/saltzman_katy_perry_gets_her_revenge.html |title=Saltzman: Katy Perry gets her Revenge |first=Marc |last=Saltzman |newspaper=[[Toronto Star]] |access-date=May 1, 2022|date=August 27, 2010 |archive-date=August 30, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100830171016/http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/games/article/851814--saltzman-katy-perry-gets-her-revenge |url-status=live}}</ref>

In January 2011, THQ sold off its THQ Wireless division to a Swedish mobile company called 24MAS.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.24mas.com/press-news/press-releases/209-24mas-acquires-thqs-wireless-operations |title=24MAS acquires THQ's Wireless Operations |date=February 8, 2011 |access-date=February 7, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140301173724/http://www.24mas.com/press-news/press-releases/209-24mas-acquires-thqs-wireless-operations |archive-date=March 1, 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref> On January 12, 2011, THQ unveiled its new logo.<ref>{{cite web |last=Chester |first=Nick |title=THQ reveals new logo for 'new THQ' (Update) |url=https://www.destructoid.com/thq-reveals-new-logo-for-new-thq-update/ |website=[[Destructoid]] |access-date=May 1, 2012 |date=January 12, 2011 |archive-date=October 29, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121029045422/http://www.destructoid.com/thq-reveals-new-logo-for-new-thq-update--191463.phtml |url-status=live}}</ref> In March 2011, THQ, after its game ''[[Homefront (video game)|Homefront]]'' was released, suffered a 26% stock drop. The large drop was speculated to be a result of ''Homefront''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s poor reception.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thesixthaxis.com/2011/03/16/thq-stock-price-drops-26 |title=THQ Stock Price Drops 26% |website=TheSixthAxis |date=March 16, 2011 |access-date=May 1, 2022 |archive-date=March 19, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110319091955/http://www.thesixthaxis.com/2011/03/16/thq-stock-price-drops-26/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
On June 13, 2011, THQ announced the closure of [[Kaos Studios]] (the developer of ''Homefront'')<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Crossley |first=Rob |title=THQ to axe Homefront studio Kaos [Update 2] |url=https://www.mcvuk.com/development-news/thq-to-axe-homefront-studio-kaos-update-2/ |magazine=MCV|access-date=May 1, 2022|date=June 13, 2011 |archive-date=June 16, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110616103606/http://www.develop-online.net/news/38018/THQ-to-axe-Homefront-studio-Kaos |url-status=live}}</ref> and THQ Digital Warrington (formerly Juice Games).<ref>{{cite magazine |last=French |first=Michael |title=THQ to cut down UK studio [Update 2] |url=https://www.mcvuk.com/development-news/thq-to-cut-down-uk-studio-update-2/ |magazine=MCV  |access-date=May 1, 2022 |date=June 13, 2011 |archive-date=June 16, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110616103545/http://www.develop-online.net/news/38017/THQ-to-cut-down-UK-studio |url-status=live}}</ref>

On July 27, 2011, THQ announced it was dropping the long-running ''[[Red Faction]]'' franchise. This was believed to be due to the poor reception over the latest game in the franchise, ''[[Red Faction: Armageddon]]''.<ref>{{cite web |last=Dutton |first=Fred |title=THQ abandons Red Faction franchise |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/thq-abandons-red-faction-franchise |website=Eurogamer |date=July 27, 2011 |access-date=May 1, 2022 |archive-date=August 7, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110807192932/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-07-27-thq-abandons-red-faction-franchise |url-status=live}}</ref> In the same year on August 9, 2011, THQ announced it would shift its development focus away from licensed kids and movie-based titles by closing down [[THQ Studio Australia]] and [[Blue Tongue Entertainment|Blue Tongue]] in order to focus on "high-quality owned [[Intellectual property|IP]]." The company also closed down THQ Digital Phoenix (formerly Rainbow Studios), thus dropping the ''[[MX vs. ATV]]'' franchise.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.engadget.com/2011-08-09-thq-fires-200-shifts-development-focus-away-from-kids-and-licen.html |title=THQ lets 200 go, shifts development focus away from kids and licensed titles |author=David Hinkle |website=Engadget |date=August 9, 2011 |access-date=May 1, 2022 |archive-date=January 18, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120118181120/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/thq-fires-200-shifts-development-focus-away-from-kids-and-licen/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kotaku.com.au/2011/08/thq-closes-blue-tongue-and-thq-brisbane-to-focus-on-high-quality-owned-ip/ |title=THQ Closes Blue Tongue And THQ Brisbane To Focus On 'High-Quality Owned IP' |author=Mark Serrels |website=Kotaku Australia |date=August 10, 2011 |access-date=August 10, 2011 |archive-date=October 1, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111001080739/http://www.kotaku.com.au/2011/08/thq-closes-blue-tongue-and-thq-brisbane-to-focus-on-high-quality-owned-ip/ |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.engadget.com/2011-08-09-thq-not-to-actively-pursue-further-development-of-mx-vs-atv-fr.html |title=THQ 'not to actively pursue further development' of MX vs ATV franchise |author=Richard Mitchell |website=Engadget|date=August 8, 2011 |access-date=May 1, 2022 |archive-date=March 1, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120301142532/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/thq-not-to-actively-pursue-further-development-of-mx-vs-atv-fr/ |url-status=live}}</ref>

In November 2011, a uDraw for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 was released.<ref>{{cite web |last=Eykemans |first=Peter |title=uDraw Gametablet Impressions |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/11/18/udraw-gametablet-impressions |website=IGN |access-date=January 4, 2013 |date=November 18, 2011 |archive-date=December 22, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121222014722/http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/11/18/udraw-gametablet-impressions |url-status=live}}</ref> However, it was a commercial failure,<ref>{{cite web |last=Dutton |first=Fred |title=THQ details full extent of uDraw disaster |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/thq-details-full-extent-of-udraw-disaster |website=Eurogamer |access-date=May 1, 2022 |date=February 2, 2012 |archive-date=January 9, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130109193251/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-02-02-thq-details-full-extent-of-udraw-disaster |url-status=live}}</ref> and is considered one of the main causes of the financial woes that broke up the company.<ref>{{cite news |last=Dodson |first=Don |title=THQ auction clouds Volition future |url=https://www.news-gazette.com/news/thq-auction-clouds-volition-future/article_0fe1ca7e-6c70-5363-b1a7-34bd434b0f01.html|access-date=May 1, 2022 |newspaper=News-Gazette (Champaign-Urbana) |date=January 20, 2013 |archive-date=January 24, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130124062735/http://www.news-gazette.com/news/business/economy/2013-01-20/thq-auction-clouds-volition-future.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=The Break Up – Bankrupt THQ's Assets Sold At Auction |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/danielnyegriffiths/2013/01/24/the-break-up-bankrupt-thq-assets-sold-at-auction/ |access-date=January 24, 2013 |newspaper=Forbes |date=January 24, 2013 |author=Daniel Nye Griffiths |archive-date=February 16, 2013 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130216032346/http://www.forbes.com/sites/danielnyegriffiths/2013/01/24/the-break-up-bankrupt-thq-assets-sold-at-auction/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

In January 2012, THQ announced that it was exiting the licensed kids game business to focus on adult core gaming, but would continue to sell previously released titles.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Savitz |first1=Eric |title=THQ To Exit Kids Game Market; What Now For SpongeBob? |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/ericsavitz/2012/01/25/thq-to-exit-kids-game-market-what-now-for-spongebob/#8ff10553d8a1 |access-date=October 1, 2017 |work=Forbes |date=January 25, 2012 |language=en |archive-date=October 1, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171001075659/https://www.forbes.com/sites/ericsavitz/2012/01/25/thq-to-exit-kids-game-market-what-now-for-spongebob/#8ff10553d8a1 |url-status=live}}</ref> In February 2012, THQ also discontinued the uDraw GameTablet for the same reason.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/thq-details-full-extent-of-udraw-disaster |title=THQ details full extent of uDraw disaster |website=Eurogamer |date=February 2, 2012 |access-date=May 2, 2022|archive-date=January 9, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130109193251/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-02-02-thq-details-full-extent-of-udraw-disaster |url-status=live}}</ref>

In May 2012, THQ reported a net loss of $239.9 million for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2012. The loss was $100 million more than the previous fiscal year's loss of $136.1 million.<ref>{{cite web |last=Conditt |first=Jessica |title=THQ sees net loss of $239.9 million, still in business |url=https://www.engadget.com/2012-05-15-thq-sees-net-loss-of-239-9-million-still-in-business.html|website=Engadget |access-date=May 1, 2022 |date=May 15, 2012 |archive-date=July 19, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120719001026/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/thq-sees-net-loss-of-239-9-million-still-in-business/ |url-status=live}}</ref> That same month, [[Jason Rubin]] was appointed president of the company.<ref>{{cite web |title=Jason Rubin from Naughty Dog Appointed as President of THQ |url=http://www.planetxbox360.com/article_19957/Jason_Rubin_from_Naughty_Dog_Appointed_as_President_of_THQ |website=Planet Xbox360 |access-date=May 30, 2012 |archive-date=September 6, 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120906072544/http://www.planetxbox360.com/article_19957/Jason_Rubin_from_Naughty_Dog_Appointed_as_President_of_THQ |url-status=dead }}</ref>

THQ filed a notice with the SEC on May 25 for a June 29 stockholder's meeting, where THQ asked stockholders to approve a reverse split of the company's common stock.<ref>{{cite web |last=Peterson |first=Steve |title=THQ plans reverse stock split |url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2012-05-26-thq-plans-reverse-stock-split |work=[[Gamer Network#Editorial websites|GamesIndustry.biz]] |access-date=December 1, 2012 |date=May 26, 2012 |archive-date=October 3, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121003061439/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2012-05-26-thq-plans-reverse-stock-split |url-status=live}}</ref> On June 4, 2012, THQ announced a deal to turn over their license for [[Ultimate Fighting Championship|UFC]] games to [[Electronic Arts]] (EA).<ref>{{cite web |last=Plunkett |first=Luke |title=EA Gets the UFC License, Will Make Games For Years, Dana White Looks Uncomfortable |url=https://kotaku.com/ea-gets-the-ufc-license-will-make-games-for-years-dan-5915636 |website=Kotaku |access-date=May 2, 2022 |date=June 4, 2012 |archive-date=June 7, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120607035811/http://kotaku.com/5915636/ea-gets-the-ufc-license-will-make-games-for-years |url-status=live}}</ref> In July 2012, THQ reported that its stockholders had approved the 1-for-10 reverse share split of its common stock to avert a delisting from the NASDAQ.<ref>{{cite news |title=UPDATE 1-THQ Inc announces 1 for 10 reverse stock split |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/thq-reversestocksplit-idUSL3E8I252V20120702 |website=Reuters |access-date=December 1, 2012 |date=July 2, 2012 |archive-date=August 2, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120802175340/http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/07/02/thq-reversestocksplit-idUSL3E8I252V20120702 |url-status=live}}</ref>

===Bankruptcy and liquidation, THQ Nordic (2012–2013)===
On November 13, 2012, THQ reported that they could not repay a $50 million loan from [[Wells Fargo]], and were on the verge of [[Chapter 11 bankruptcy]]. With its stock price plummeting from early November values bordering on $3 down to $1.16 and with long-term liabilities of $250 million, THQ was forced to delay the release dates of its flagship titles ''[[Company of Heroes 2]]'' and ''[[Metro: Last Light]]'' to March 2013.<ref>{{cite web |title=THQ, Inc. (NASDAQ:THQI) On the Verge of Bankruptcy |url=http://www.gamersdailynews.com/story-29013-THQ-Inc-NASDAQTHQI-On-the-Verge-of-Bankruptcy.html |website=Gamer Daily News |access-date=December 1, 2012 |date=November 13, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121204163336/http://www.gamersdailynews.com/story-29013-THQ-Inc-NASDAQTHQI-On-the-Verge-of-Bankruptcy.html |archive-date=December 4, 2012}}</ref> On November 29, 2012, THQ partnered with [[Humble Bundle]] to launch the Humble THQ Bundle in an effort to raise more money.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blog.humblebundle.com/post/36817861850/the-humble-thq-bundle-has-arrived |title=The Humble THQ Bundle Has Arrived |website=[[Humble Bundle]] |access-date=August 15, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160914154655/http://blog.humblebundle.com/post/36817861850/the-humble-thq-bundle-has-arrived |archive-date=September 14, 2016 |url-status=dead}}</ref> By December 12, 2012, THQ sold nearly 800,000 bundles, raising around $5 million;<ref>{{cite web |last=Agnello |first=Anthony J. |title=Humble Bundle THQ sale raises over $2.3 million with help from CEO |url=http://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/humble-bundle-goes-corporate-with-drm-protected-thq-sale/ |website=[[Digital Trends]] |access-date=December 1, 2012 |date=November 30, 2012 |archive-date=December 3, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121203204223/http://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/humble-bundle-goes-corporate-with-drm-protected-thq-sale/ |url-status=dead}}</ref> THQ President Jason Rubin also made a purchase, spending $11,050 on the bundle.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://kotaku.com/who-was-the-biggest-beneficiary-of-thqs-5-million-humb-5968744 |title=Who was the Biggest Beneficiary of THQ's $5 Million Humble Bundle? |first=Owen |last=Good |website=Kotaku |date=December 15, 2012 |access-date=May 2, 2022 |archive-date=December 18, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121218235012/http://kotaku.com/5968744/who-was-the-biggest-beneficiary-of-thqs-5-million-humble-bundle |url-status=live}}</ref> On December 19, 2012, just days after the Humble THQ bundle ended, THQ filed for [[Chapter 11, Title 11, United States Code|Chapter 11 bankruptcy]] with the intention of selling THQ and all of its assets to [[Clearlake Capital]] with Centerview Partners handling the sale.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/thq-bankruptcy/|title=THQ declares bankruptcy, will continue publishing duties |website=PC Gamer |date=December 19, 2012 |access-date=May 2, 2022 |author=Petitte, Omri |archive-date=January 17, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140117145355/http://www.pcgamer.com/2012/12/19/thq-bankruptcy |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.centerviewpartners.com/transactions.aspx?c=2 |title=Transactions |website=Centerview Partners |access-date=August 23, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130928113158/http://www.centerviewpartners.com/transactions.aspx?c=2 |archive-date=September 28, 2013 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Skip Paul, a former colleague of Jason Rubin, helped orchestrate the proposed [[Stalking horse offer|stalking horse bid]] from Clearlake Capital Group.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/26/business/media/26paul.html|title=Longtime Hollywood Hand Is Joining Boutique Bank |last=Barnes |first=Brooks |work=The New York Times |date=April 25, 2010 |access-date=September 10, 2013 |archive-date=September 29, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130929082230/http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/26/business/media/26paul.html?_r=0 |url-status=live}}</ref>

However, the bid was ultimately denied by Judge Mary F. Walrath and creditors instead approved an individual auction of THQ's properties, which went ahead on January 22, 2013, one day prior to closure.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/thqs-franchises-and-studios-to-be-auctioned-off-on-a-title-by-title-basis/ |title=THQ's franchises and studios to be auctioned off on a "title by title" basis |last=Savage |first=Phil |website=[[PC Gamer]] |date=January 8, 2013 |access-date=May 2, 2022 |archive-date=January 13, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130113182217/http://www.pcgamer.com/2013/01/08/thqs-franchises-and-studios-to-be-auctioned-off-on-a-title-by-title-basis/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.tomshardware.com/news/THQ-Franchises-Up-for-Sale,20261.html |title=THQ's Quick Sale Denied, Individual Franchises Up for Offer |website=Tom's Hardware |date=January 9, 2013 |access-date=August 23, 2013 |archive-date=July 17, 2013 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130717081404/http://www.tomshardware.com/news/THQ-Franchises-Up-for-Sale,20261.html |url-status=live }}</ref> At the auction, the ''Homefront'' franchise was acquired by [[Crytek]] (and was later acquired by [[Koch Media]]),<ref>{{cite web |last=Pereira |first=Chris |date=July 30, 2014 |url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/crytek-no-longer-developing-homefront-sells-rights/1100-6421395/ |title=Crytek No Longer Developing Homefront, Sells Rights to Publisher Deep Silver |website=[[GameSpot]] |access-date=July 30, 2014 |archive-date=August 2, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140802021628/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/crytek-no-longer-developing-homefront-sells-rights/1100-6421395/ |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Relic Entertainment]] and the video game rights to the [[List of Games Workshop video games#Warhammer 40,000|''Warhammer 40,000'' series]] were sold to [[Sega]], and the publishing rights to [[Turtle Rock Studios]]' ''[[Evolve (video game)|Evolve]]'' and the [[WWE 2K|''WWE'' series]] were acquired by [[Take-Two Interactive]]. [[Ubisoft]] acquired THQ Montreal and the publishing rights to ''[[South Park: The Stick of Truth]]'' while [[Volition (company)|Volition]] and the publishing rights to the ''[[Metro (franchise)#Other novels|Metro]]'' and ''[[Saints Row]]'' franchises were acquired by [[Koch Media]]. [[Vigil Games]] and THQ's publishing unit were still included in the Chapter 11 case, although all employees related to these entities were [[Layoff|laid off]].<ref>{{cite news |title=THQ bankruptcy auction closes; video game rivals pick up assets |url=https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/envelope/la-xpm-2013-jan-23-la-fi-ct-thq-auction-20130124-story.html |work=[[Los Angeles Times]] |access-date=May 2, 2022|date=January 23, 2013 |first=Ben |last=Fritz |archive-date=January 31, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130131184554/http://articles.latimes.com/2013/jan/23/business/la-fi-ct-thq-auction-20130124 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2013-02-13/take-two-to-take-over-development-of-wwe-games-from-thq |title=Take-Two to Take Over Development of WWE Games From THQ |website=Bloomberg |date=February 13, 2013 |access-date=May 2, 2022 |first=Michael |last=Bathon |archive-date=February 16, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130216052744/http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-02-13/take-two-to-take-over-development-of-wwe-games-from-thq.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/01/23/thq-dissolved-saints-row-company-of-heroes-darksiders-devs-acquired |title=THQ Dissolved, Saints Row, Company of Heroes Devs Acquired |last=Goldfarb |first=Andrew |website=IGN |date=January 23, 2013 |access-date=January 23, 2013 |archive-date=February 16, 2013 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130216060055/http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/01/23/thq-dissolved-saints-row-company-of-heroes-darksiders-devs-acquired |url-status=live }}</ref> In a posting on [[Twitter]] on January 23, [[PlatinumGames]]' producer [[Atsushi Inaba]] expressed interest in acquiring the ''Darksiders'' franchise from THQ.<ref>{{cite web |title=Platinum Games boss expresses interest in buying Darksiders on Twitter |url=http://www.polygon.com/2013/1/23/3909506/platinum-games-boss-expresses-interest-in-buying-darksiders-on-twitter |website=Polygon |access-date=January 24, 2013 |date=January 24, 2013 |archive-date=January 27, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130127004952/http://www.polygon.com/2013/1/23/3909506/platinum-games-boss-expresses-interest-in-buying-darksiders-on-twitter |url-status=live}}</ref>

On February 26, THQ announced that it would sell off its remaining properties – the ''Darksiders'', ''Homeworld'', ''Red Faction'', and ''Destroy All Humans!'' franchises, as well as its licensed and original properties – in a court-approved auction which would be held from April 1 to 15, with the process completed by May.<ref>{{cite web |last=Parker |first=Laura |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/thq-to-sell-remainder-of-intellectual-properties/1100-6404541/ |title=THQ to sell remainder of intellectual properties |website=Gamespot |date=February 26, 2013 |access-date=May 2, 2022 |archive-date=September 16, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130916203542/http://www.gamespot.com/news/thq-to-sell-remainder-of-intellectual-properties-6404541 |url-status=live}}</ref> Around the same time, THQ shut down the servers to the [[Nexuiz (2012 video game)|2012 remake]] of ''[[Nexuiz]]'', which was developed by [[IllFonic]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.polygon.com/2013/2/27/4037348/nexuiz-xbox-360-servers-taken-offline |title=Nexuiz Xbox 360 servers taken offline |last=Tach |first=Dave |date=February 27, 2013 |website=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]] |access-date=August 13, 2016 |archive-date=August 14, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160814212140/http://www.polygon.com/2013/2/27/4037348/nexuiz-xbox-360-servers-taken-offline |url-status=live}}</ref> In June 2013, [[Interplay Entertainment]] acquired the rights to the ''[[Descent: Freespace|Freespace]]'' franchise from THQ.<ref>{{Cite web|url = https://www.pcgamer.com/freespace-ip-returns-to-interplay-for-just-7500|title = Freespace IP returns to Interplay for just $7,500|website = PC Gamer|date = June 7, 2013|last1 = Savage|first1 = Phil|access-date = October 11, 2021|archive-date = October 29, 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211029191320/https://www.pcgamer.com/freespace-ip-returns-to-interplay-for-just-7500/|url-status = live}}</ref>

All of THQ's remaining franchises, including the remainder of its original IPs (aside from ''Homeworld'', which was acquired by [[Gearbox Software]], and ''Drawn to Life'', acquired by [[505 Games]]) and licensed software, were auctioned to [[THQ Nordic|Nordic Games]] for $4.9 million in April 2013.<ref>{{cite web |title=Going once, going twice! Gearbox picks up Homeworld in THQ auction |url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2013/04/going-once-going-twice-gearbox-picks-up-homeworld-in-thq-auction/ |website=Ars Technica |date=April 22, 2013 |access-date=April 23, 2013 |archive-date=April 23, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130423001957/http://arstechnica.com/gaming/2013/04/going-once-going-twice-gearbox-picks-up-homeworld-in-thq-auction/ |url-status=live}}</ref> The Nickelodeon game license was acquired by [[Activision]].<ref>{{cite web |author=Kim Schmierer |url=http://zoknowsgaming.com/2013/07/31/spongebob-license-bought-activision/ |title=Spongebob License Bought Out By Activision |website=ZoKnowsGaming |date=July 31, 2013 |access-date=October 20, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161019080049/http://zoknowsgaming.com/2013/07/31/spongebob-license-bought-activision/ |archive-date=October 19, 2016 |url-status=dead}}</ref> This would later expire, with Nickelodeon licensing out their franchises through various smaller publishers, including Nordic.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Romano |first1=Sal |title=THQ Nordic and Nickelodeon to revive several select game titles from the past |url=https://gematsu.com/2018/03/thq-nordic-nickelodeon-revive-several-select-game-titles-past |website=Gematsu |access-date=March 21, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180322082145/https://gematsu.com/2018/03/thq-nordic-nickelodeon-revive-several-select-game-titles-past |archive-date=March 22, 2018 |date=21 March 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref>

Creditors initially said the proposed sale of THQ in the bankruptcy court benefited current THQ management, including Rubin.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/18432/THQs_creditors_cry_foul_over_Clearlake_plans.php |title=Lazard: Blockbuster's Game Expansion No Problem For GameStop |website=Game Developer|date=April 29, 2008 |access-date=May 2, 2022 |archive-date=October 12, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131012101427/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/18432/THQs_creditors_cry_foul_over_Clearlake_plans.php#.UObh0YnjksL |url-status=dead}}</ref> Presiding Judge Walwrath called these criticisms a "conspiracy theory" on record.<ref>In Re: THQ, Inc., et al., Case No. 12-13398-MFW (Bankr. Ct., D. Del.), Transcript of Hearing on January 4, 2013 (pp. 238–239); lines 24-2. A copy may be viewed at the Office of the Clerk, District of Delaware Bankruptcy Court, or by contacting Transcriber Reliable at 302-654-8080.</ref> Creditors ultimately released THQ management, including Rubin, of any malfeasance in the company's official plan of liquidation.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kccllc.net/thq/document/1213398130528000000000002 |title=Disclosure statement for the first amended Chapter 11 plan of liquidation of THQ Inc. and its affiliated debtors |page=154 |date=May 28, 2013 |access-date=January 16, 2016 |archive-date=May 10, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150510160458/http://www.kccllc.net/thq/document/1213398130528000000000002 |url-status=live}}</ref>

The liquidation of THQ also affected other studios; British developer [[Blitz Games Studios]] shut down in September 2013, citing financial difficulties. The company's CEO Philip Oliver said that the demise of THQ, who was a major client for the studio, was one of the major contributing factors to the closure.<ref>{{cite news |last=Lee |first=Dave |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-24066065 |title=UK games developer Blitz Games Studios shuts down |work=BBC News |date=September 12, 2013 |access-date=September 15, 2013 |archive-date=September 14, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130914215113/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-24066065 |url-status=live}}</ref>

On June 12, 2014, [[THQ Nordic|Nordic Games]] announced that it had acquired the THQ [[trademark]], allowing the studio to publish games under the THQ name.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.polygon.com/2014/6/12/5805074/thq-trademark-acquired-nordic-games |title=THQ trademark acquired by Nordic Games |website=Polygon |date=June 12, 2014 |access-date=July 27, 2014 |archive-date=July 14, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714120024/http://www.polygon.com/2014/6/12/5805074/thq-trademark-acquired-nordic-games |url-status=live}}</ref> In August 2016, the company was renamed THQ Nordic in an effort to better associate itself with the historic brand.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://venturebeat.com/2016/08/12/nordic-games-brings-back-the-thq-name-rebrands-as-thq-nordic/ |title=Nordic Games brings back the THQ name, rebrands as THQ Nordic |first=Dean |last=Takahashi |work=[[VentureBeat]] |date=August 12, 2016 |access-date=August 12, 2016 |archive-date=August 19, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160819095734/http://venturebeat.com/2016/08/12/nordic-games-brings-back-the-thq-name-rebrands-as-thq-nordic/ |url-status=live}}</ref>

==Subsidiaries==

===Development===
{| class="wikitable sortable plainrowheaders"
|-
! scope="col" | Name
! scope="col" | Location
! scope="col" | Acquired/established
! scope="col" | Divested
! scope="col" | Fate
|-
! scope="row" | Black Pearl Software
| [[Chicago]]<ref name="LATimes: Black Pearl">{{cite web |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1993-06-08-fi-919-story.html |title=THQ Inc. to Acquire Black Pearl Software |date=June 8, 1993 |website=[[Los Angeles Times]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719201917/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1993-06-08-fi-919-story.html |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|1993|06}}<ref name="LATimes: Black Pearl" />
| {{N/A}}
| Intent to dissolve stated in September 1997;<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/0000950148-97-002811.txt |title=Form 10-Q |date=November 13, 1997 |website=[[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200720022715/https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/0000950148-97-002811.txt |url-status=live}}</ref> in dissolution by November 2000<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000095015000000914/0000950150-00-000914.txt |title=Form 10-Q |date=November 11, 2000 |website=[[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719193701/https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000095015000000914/0000950150-00-000914.txt |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
! scope="row" | [[Heliotrope Studios]]
| [[Guilford, Connecticut]]<ref name="Onecle: Heliotrope">{{cite web |url=https://contracts.onecle.com/thq/heliotrope.spa.1996.08.02.shtml |title=Stock Purchase Agreement – THQ Inc., Heliotrope Studios Inc., Andrew Sispoidis and Peter G. Sispoidis |date=August 2, 1996 |website=Onecle |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719204501/https://contracts.onecle.com/thq/heliotrope.spa.1996.08.02.shtml |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|1996|08|02}}<ref name="Onecle: Heliotrope" /><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/0000950150-97-000458.txt |title=Form 10-K |date=March 31, 1997 |website=[[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200720051807/https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/0000950150-97-000458.txt |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|1998|05}}<ref name="SEC: 8-K 1999">{{cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/0000950150-99-000016.txt |title=Form 8-K |date=January 8, 1999 |website=[[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=February 25, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170225025508/https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/0000950150-99-000016.txt |url-status=live}}</ref>
| Dissolved due to THQ's acquisition of GameFX<ref name="SEC: 8-K 1999" />
|-
! scope="row" | GameFX
| [[Arlington, Massachusetts]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://contracts.onecle.com/thq/gamefx.mer.1998.04.17.shtml |title=Agreement of Merger – THQ Inc. and GameFX Inc. |date=April 17, 1998 |website=Onecle |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719203602/https://contracts.onecle.com/thq/gamefx.mer.1998.04.17.shtml |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|1998|05|01}}<ref name="SEC: 10-K 1999">{{cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/0000950148-99-000639.txt |title=Form 10-K405 |date=March 13, 1999 |website=[[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719194253/https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/0000950148-99-000639.txt |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{N/A}}
| In dissolution by November 2002<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000095015002001060/0000950150-02-001060.txt |title=THQ Inc.Form 10-Q September 30, 2002 |date=November 14, 2002 |website=[[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200720003246/https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000095015002001060/0000950150-02-001060.txt |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
! scope="row" | [[Locomotive Games]]
| [[Santa Clara, California]]<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2005">{{cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000110465905027764/a05-10272_210k.htm |title=10-K |date=June 10, 2005 |website=[[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719201257/https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000110465905027764/a05-10272_210k.htm |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|1999|05|24}}<ref>{{cite web |url=https://contracts.onecle.com/thq/pacific.mer.1999.05.10.shtml |title=Agreement of Merger – THQ Inc. and Pacific Coast Power & Light Co. |date=May 10, 1999 |website=Onecle |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719193704/https://contracts.onecle.com/thq/pacific.mer.1999.05.10.shtml |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="SEC: 10-K 2000">{{cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000095015000000233/0000950150-00-000233.txt |title=Form 10-K |date=March 28, 2000 |website=[[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200720003318/https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000095015000000233/0000950150-00-000233.txt |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2008|11|03}}<ref name="Shacknews: Five studios">{{cite web |url=https://www.shacknews.com/article/55703/thq-closes-five-studios-updated |title=THQ Closes Five Studios (Updated) |first=Chris |last=Faylor |date=November 3, 2008 |website=[[Shacknews]] |access-date=March 14, 2021 |archive-date=April 28, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200428154800/https://www.shacknews.com/article/55703/thq-closes-five-studios-updated |url-status=live}}</ref>
| Renamed from Pacific Coast Power & Light in April 2005;<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2005" /> closed by THQ<ref name="Shacknews: Five studios" />
|-
! scope="row" | [[Heavy Iron Studios]]
| [[Los Angeles]]<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2001">{{cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000095015001000105/0000950150-01-000105.txt |title=Form 10-K405 Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2000 |date=March 29, 2001 |website=[[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200720010349/https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000095015001000105/0000950150-01-000105.txt |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|1999|09}}<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000095014899002478/0000950148-99-002478.txt |title=Form 10-Q (09/30/1999) |date=November 15, 1999 |website=[[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=April 29, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170429083351/https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000095014899002478/0000950148-99-002478.txt |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2009|03}}<ref name="GIbiz: Big Huge">{{cite web |url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/thq-to-sell-big-huge-games-or-close-studio |title=THQ to sell Big Huge Games or close studio |first=Matt |last=Martin |date=March 18, 2009 |website=[[GamesIndustry.biz]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719194439/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/thq-to-sell-big-huge-games-or-close-studio |url-status=live}}</ref>
| Spun off into an independent company<ref name="GIbiz: Big Huge" />
|-
! scope="row" | Genetic Anomalies
| [[Lexington, Massachusetts]]<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2001" />
| {{dts|1999|12|13}}<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2000" />
| {{N/A}}
| {{N/A}}
|-
! scope="row" | [[Volition (company)|Volition]]
| [[Champaign, Illinois]]<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2001" />
| {{dts|2000|08|31}}<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2001" />
| {{dts|2013|01|23}}<ref name="Eurogamer: Bankruptcy result">{{cite web |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/thq-is-no-more-this-is-where-its-assets-went |title=THQ is no more. This is where its assets went |first=Jeffrey |last=Matulef |date=January 23, 2013 |website=[[Eurogamer]] |access-date=May 2, 2022 |archive-date=October 29, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171029015445/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2013-01-23-thq-is-no-more-this-is-where-its-assets-went |url-status=live}}</ref>
| Sold to [[Deep Silver]] as part of THQ's bankruptcy proceedings<ref name="Eurogamer: Bankruptcy result" />
|-
! scope="row" | Helixe
| [[Burlington, Massachusetts]]<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2001" />
| {{dts|2000|07}}<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.helixe.com/about.htm |title=About |website=Helixe |archive-date=April 7, 2001 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010407194514/http://www.helixe.com/about.htm |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| {{dts|2008|11|03}}<ref name="Shacknews: Five studios" />
| Closed by THQ<ref name="Shacknews: Five studios" />
|-
! scope="row" | Cedar Ridge Construction
| [[Grass Valley, California]]<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2002">{{cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000095015002000250/a80019e10-k405.htm |title=Form 10-K for the Period Ended 12/31/2001 |date=March 22, 2002 |website=[[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719193705/https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000095015002000250/a80019e10-k405.htm |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2001|05}}<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2002" />
| {{dts|2001}}<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2002" />
| Merged into Pacific Coast Power & Light<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2002" />
|-
! scope="row" | [[THQ Digital Studios Phoenix]]
| [[Phoenix, Arizona]]<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2002" />
| {{dts|2001|12|21}}<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2002" /><ref>{{cite web |url=https://contracts.onecle.com/thq/rainbow.mer.2001.12.21.shtml |title=Agreement of Merger – THQ Inc. and Rainbow Multimedia Group Inc. |date=December 21, 2001 |website=Onecle |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=April 10, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160410102633/http://contracts.onecle.com/thq/rainbow.mer.2001.12.21.shtml |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2011|08|09}}<ref name="Kotaku: Three studios">{{cite web |url=https://kotaku.com/thq-cuts-200-jobs-mx-vs-atv-series-de-blob-studio-an-5829346 |title=THQ Cuts 200 Jobs, ''MX vs. ATV'' Series, ''de Blob'' Studio and More |first=Michael |last=McWhertor |date=August 9, 2011 |website=[[Kotaku]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 23, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190723174907/https://kotaku.com/thq-cuts-200-jobs-mx-vs-atv-series-de-blob-studio-an-5829346 |url-status=live}}</ref>
| Renamed from Rainbow Studios in February 2010;<ref name="GameSpot: THQ Digital">{{cite web |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/juice-games-rainbow-studios-get-downloadable-focus-layoffs/1100-6249427/ |title=Juice Games, Rainbow Studios get downloadable focus, layoffs |first=Brendan |last=Sinclair |date=February 3, 2010 |website=[[GameSpot]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=August 28, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200828213424/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/juice-games-rainbow-studios-get-downloadable-focus-layoffs/1100-6249427/ |url-status=live}}</ref> closed by THQ<ref name="Kotaku: Three studios" />
|-
! scope="row" | Sandblast Games
| [[Kirkland, Washington]]<ref name="GDSandblast">{{cite web |url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/pc/report-thq-s-rainbow-sandblast-studios-see-layoffs |title=Report: THQ's Rainbow, Sandblast Studios See Layoffs |first=Chris |last=Remo |author-link=Chris Remo |date=April 30, 2008 |website=Game Developer |access-date=May 1, 2022 |archive-date=August 28, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200828213458/https://gamasutra.com/view/news/109396/Report_THQs_Rainbow_Sandblast_Studios_See_Layoffs.php |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2002|02}}<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2002" />
| {{dts|2008|11|03}}<ref name="Shacknews: Five studios" />
| Formerly named Cranky Pants Games;<ref name="GDSandblast" /> closed by THQ<ref name="Shacknews: Five studios" />
|-
! scope="row" | [[Outrage Games]]
| [[Ann Arbor, Michigan]]<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2002" />
| {{dts|2002|03}}<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2002" />
| {{dts|2003|06|30|format=y}}<!-- Disestablished during the three months ended June 30, 2003 --><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000110465903018616/a03-2259_110q.htm |title=10-Q |date=August 14, 2003 |website=[[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200720013353/https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000110465903018616/a03-2259_110q.htm |url-status=live}}</ref>
| Closed by THQ<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.neowin.net/news/outrage-closed-down |title=Outrage Closed Down |first=Marcel |last=Klum |date=July 16, 2004 |website=[[Neowin]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=October 21, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141021234038/http://www.neowin.net/news/outrage-closed-down |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
! scope="row" | [[THQ Studio Australia]]
| [[Brisbane]]<ref name="GameStop: THQ Australia">{{cite web |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/oz-developer-watch-thq-studio-australia/1100-6233951/ |title=Oz Developer Watch: THQ Studio Australia |first=Laura |last=Parker |date=March 30, 2009 |website=[[GameSpot]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200720051601/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/oz-developer-watch-thq-studio-australia/1100-6233951/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2003}}<ref name="GameStop: THQ Australia" />
| {{dts|2011|08|09}}<ref name="Kotaku: Three studios" />
| Closed by THQ<ref name="Kotaku: Three studios" />
|-
! scope="row" | [[Relic Entertainment]]
| [[Vancouver]]<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2005" />
| {{dts|2004|04}}<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000110465904016791/a04-6774_110k.htm |title=10-K |date=June 14, 2004 |website=[[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200720051442/https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000110465904016791/a04-6774_110k.htm |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2013|01|23}}<ref name="Eurogamer: Bankruptcy result" />
| Sold to [[Sega]] as part of THQ's bankruptcy proceedings<ref name="Eurogamer: Bankruptcy result" />
|-
! scope="row" | Concrete Games
| [[San Diego]]<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2005" />
| {{dts|2004|09|30|format=y}}<!-- Established during the three months ended September 30, 2004, so after Relic and before Blue Tongue --><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/pc/thq-reports-loss-for-q2-new-san-diego-studio |title=THQ Reports Loss For Q2, New San Diego Studio|work=Game Developer |first1=Andrew |last1=Wilson |first2=Simon |last2=Carless |date=October 27, 2004 |access-date=May 1, 2022 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719200911/https://gamasutra.com/view/news/95432/THQ_Reports_Loss_For_Q2_New_San_Diego_Studio.php |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2008|01|23}}<ref name="Shacknews: Concrete">{{cite web |url=https://www.shacknews.com/article/50923/thq-cancels-frontlines-ps3-closes |title=THQ Cancels Frontlines PS3, Closes Concrete Games; No More Juiced or Stuntman Titles |first=Aaron |last=Linde |date=January 23, 2008 |website=[[Shacknews]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=December 21, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191221192510/https://www.shacknews.com/article/50923/thq-cancels-frontlines-ps3-closes |url-status=live}}</ref>
| Closed by THQ<ref name="Shacknews: Concrete" />
|-
! scope="row" | [[Blue Tongue Entertainment]]
| [[Melbourne]]<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2005" />
| {{dts|2004|11|17}}<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/thq-expands-australian-presence-with-blue-tongue-buyout |title=THQ expands Australian presence with Blue Tongue buyout |first=Rob |last=Fahey |date=November 17, 2004 |website=[[GamesIndustry.biz]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719193705/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/thq-expands-australian-presence-with-blue-tongue-buyout |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2011|08|09}}<ref name="Kotaku: Three studios" />
| Closed by THQ<ref name="Kotaku: Three studios" />
|-
! scope="row" | [[Kaos Studios]]
| [[New York City]]<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2006">{{cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000110465906040235/a06-9725_110k.htm |title=Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 and 15(D) |date=June 7, 2006 |website=[[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719233139/https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000110465906040235/a06-9725_110k.htm |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2006|02|03}}<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/pc/thq-announces-formation-of-kaos-studios |title=THQ Announces Formation Of Kaos Studios |first=Simon |last=Carless |date=February 3, 2006 |website=Game Developer|access-date=May 2, 2022 |archive-date=July 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200720224239/https://gamasutra.com/view/news/98983/THQ_Announces_Formation_Of_Kaos_Studios.php |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2011|06|13}}<ref name="GIbiz: Kaos">{{cite web |url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2011-06-13-homefront-developer-kaos-reportedly-closing-down |title=THQ closes Kaos and Warrington studios |first=Dan |last=Pearson |date=June 13, 2011 |website=[[GamesIndustry.biz]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200720021733/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2011-06-13-homefront-developer-kaos-reportedly-closing-down |url-status=live}}</ref>
| Closed by THQ<ref name="GIbiz: Kaos" />
|-
! scope="row" | THQ Digital Studios Warrington
| [[Warrington]]<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2006" />
| {{dts|2006|03|06}}<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/pc/thq-acquires-uk-developer-juice-games|title=THQ Acquires UK Developer Juice Games |first=Simon |last=Carless |date=March 6, 2006 |website=Game Developer |access-date=May 2, 2022 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719204634/https://gamasutra.com/view/news/99353/THQ_Acquires_UK_Developer_Juice_Games.php |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2011|06|13}}<ref name="GIbiz: Kaos" />
| Renamed from Juice Games in February 2010;<ref name="GameSpot: THQ Digital" /> closed by THQ<ref name="GIbiz: Kaos" />
|-
! scope="row" | [[Vigil Games]]
| [[Austin, Texas]]<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2006" />
| {{dts|2006|03|17}}<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/03/17/thq-acquires-vigil-games |title=THQ Acquires Vigil Games |first=Jeff |last=Haynes |date=March 17, 2006 |website=[[IGN]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719204423/https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/03/17/thq-acquires-vigil-games |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2013|01|23}}<ref name="IGN: Bankruptcy result">{{cite web |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2013/01/23/thq-dissolved-saints-row-company-of-heroes-darksiders-devs-acquired |title=THQ Dissolved, Saints Row, Company of Heroes Devs Acquired |first=Andrew |last=Goldfarb |date=January 23, 2013 |website=[[IGN]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=February 3, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190203030706/https://www.ign.com/articles/2013/01/23/thq-dissolved-saints-row-company-of-heroes-darksiders-devs-acquired |url-status=live}}</ref>
| Closed as part of THQ's bankruptcy proceedings<ref name="IGN: Bankruptcy result" />
|-
! scope="row" | [[Incinerator Studios]]
| [[Carlsbad, California]]<ref name="GIbiz: Big Huge" />
| {{dts|2006|07|18}}<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2006" /><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/07/18/thq-incinerates |title=THQ Incinerates |first=Daemon |last=Hatfield |date=18 July 2006 |website=[[IGN]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200720004430/https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/07/18/thq-incinerates |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2009|03}}<ref name="GIbiz: Big Huge" />
| Spun off into an independent company<ref name="GIbiz: Big Huge" />
|-
! scope="row" | [[Paradigm Entertainment]]
| [[Dallas]]<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2007">{{cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000110465907044132/a07-14939_110k.htm |title=10-K |date=May 30, 2007 |website=[[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719193737/https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000110465907044132/a07-14939_110k.htm |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2006|07|25}}<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/pc/thq-completes-purchase-of-paradigm-entertainment |title=THQ Completes Purchase Of Paradigm Entertainment |first=Jason |last=Dobson |date=July 25, 2006 |website=[[Gamasutra]] |access-date=May 2, 2022|archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719205344/https://gamasutra.com/view/news/101166/THQ_Completes_Purchase_Of_Paradigm_Entertainment.php |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2008|11|03}}<ref name="Shacknews: Five studios" />
| Closed by THQ<ref name="Shacknews: Five studios" />
|-
! scope="row" | [[Mass Media Games]]
| [[Moorpark, California]]<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2007" />
| {{dts|2007|02|02}}<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.engadget.com/2007-02-02-mass-media-joins-thq-family.html |title=Mass Media joins THQ family |first=James |last=Ransom-Wiley |date=February 2, 2007 |website=[[Engadget]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719203318/https://www.engadget.com/2007-02-02-mass-media-joins-thq-family.html |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2008|11|03}}<ref name="Shacknews: Five studios" />
| Closed by THQ<ref name="Shacknews: Five studios" />
|-
! scope="row" | [[Big Huge Games]]
| [[Timonium, Maryland]]<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2008">{{cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000104746908007002/a2185928z10-k.htm |title=10-K |date=May 28, 2008 |website=[[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719194654/https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000104746908007002/a2185928z10-k.htm |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2008|01|18}}<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2008" />
| {{dts|2009|05|27}}<ref name="GIbiz: Big Huge sale">{{cite web |url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/38-studios-acquires-big-huge-games |title=38 Studios acquires Big Huge Games |first=Matt |last=Martin |date=May 27, 2009 |website=[[GamesIndustry.biz]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200720013020/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/38-studios-acquires-big-huge-games |url-status=live}}</ref>
| Sold to [[38 Studios]]<ref name="GIbiz: Big Huge sale" />
|-
! scope="row" | [[Universomo]]
| [[Tampere]]<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2008" />
| {{dts|2007|05}}<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2008" />
| {{dts|2010|03|02}}<ref name="IGN: Universomo">{{cite web |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2010/03/02/thq-closes-universomo |title=THQ Closes Universomo |first=Levi |last=Buchanan |date=March 2, 2010 |website=[[IGN]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719194455/https://www.ign.com/articles/2010/03/02/thq-closes-universomo |url-status=live}}</ref>
| Closed by THQ<ref name="IGN: Universomo" />
|-
! scope="row" | [[THQ San Diego]]
| San Diego<ref name="GameSpot: THQ San Diego">{{cite web |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/thq-buys-midway-san-diego-for-200k/1100-6215101/ |title=THQ buys Midway San Diego for $200K |first=Tor |last=Thorsen |date=August 12, 2009 |website=[[GameSpot]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719201916/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/thq-buys-midway-san-diego-for-200k/1100-6215101/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2009|08|12}}<ref name="GameSpot: THQ San Diego" />
| {{dts|2012|06|04}}<ref name="Polygon: THQ San Diego">{{cite web |url=https://www.polygon.com/gaming/2012/6/4/3064285/thq-san-diego-reportedly-shuttered-as-ufc-rights-pass-to-ea |title=THQ San Diego shuttered as UFC rights pass to EA |first=Griffin |last=McElroy |date=June 4, 2012 |website=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200720051807/https://www.polygon.com/gaming/2012/6/4/3064285/thq-san-diego-reportedly-shuttered-as-ufc-rights-pass-to-ea |url-status=live}}</ref>
| Formerly known as Midway San Diego;<ref name="GameSpot: THQ San Diego" /> closed by THQ<ref name="Polygon: THQ San Diego" />
|-
! scope="row" | [[THQ Montreal]]
| [[Montreal]]<ref name="Gamasutra: THQ Montreal">{{cite web |url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/pc/thq-to-open-montreal-studio-led-by-i-assassin-s-creed-i-s-desilets |title=THQ To Open Montreal Studio Led By ''Assassin's Creed''{{'}}s Desilets |first=Leigh |last=Alexander |author-link=Leigh Alexander (journalist) |date=October 19, 2010 |website=Game Developer |access-date=May 2, 2022 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719193707/https://gamasutra.com/view/news/121747/THQ_To_Open_Montreal_Studio_Led_By_Assassins_Creeds_Desilets.php |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2010|10|19}}<ref name="Gamasutra: THQ Montreal" />
| {{dts|2013|01|23}}<ref name="Eurogamer: Bankruptcy result" />
| Sold to [[Ubisoft]] as part of THQ's bankruptcy proceedings<ref name="Eurogamer: Bankruptcy result" />
|}

===Publishing===
{| class="wikitable sortable plainrowheaders"
|-
! scope="col" | Name
! scope="col" | Location
! scope="col" | Acquired/established
! scope="col" | Divested
! scope="col" | Fate
|-
! scope="row" | THQ Entertainment
| [[Kaarst]]<ref name="SEC: 10-K 1999" />
| {{dts|1998|12|02}}<ref name="SEC: 10-K 1999" />
| {{N/A}}
| Renamed from Rushware in December 2000<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mediabiz.de/games/news/rushware-jetzt-thq/91782 |title=Rushware jetzt THQ |language=de |trans-title=Rushware now THQ |date=February 12, 2002 |website=GamesMakrt |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200720015056/http://www.mediabiz.de/games/news/rushware-jetzt-thq/91782 |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
! scope="row" | THQ Wireless
| {{N/A}}
| {{dts|2001|05}}<ref>{{cite web |url=http://beta.gamesmarkt.de/details/107134 |title=THQ forciert den Mobile Games-Markt |language=de |trans-title=THQ pushes the mobile games market |first=Stefan |last=Steininger |date=January 9, 2002 |website=GamesMarkt |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200720051605/http://beta.gamesmarkt.de/details/107134 |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2011|02|08}}<ref name="AllThingsD: THQ Wireless">{{cite web |url=http://allthingsd.com/20110208/thq-wireless-sells-to-mobile-advertising-company-24mas/ |title=THQ Wireless Sells to Mobile Advertising Company 24MAS |first=Tricia |last=Duryee |date=February 8, 2011 |website=[[All Things Digital]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719193707/http://allthingsd.com/20110208/thq-wireless-sells-to-mobile-advertising-company-24mas/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
| Sold to 24MAS<ref name="AllThingsD: THQ Wireless" />
|-
! scope="row" | [[ValuSoft]]
| [[Waconia, Minnesota]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000110465903005535/j8914_10k.htm |title=10-K |date=March 31, 2003 |website=[[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719193706/https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/865570/000110465903005535/j8914_10k.htm |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{dts|2002|07|01}}<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2005" />
| {{dts|2012|04|25}}<ref name="GIbiz: ValuSoft">{{cite web |url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2012-04-25-thq-sells-its-valusoft-division-to-cosmi |title=THQ sells its ValuSoft division to Cosmi |first=James |last=Brightman |date=April 25, 2012 |website=[[GamesIndustry.biz]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719201917/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2012-04-25-thq-sells-its-valusoft-division-to-cosmi |url-status=live}}</ref>
| Sold to [[Cosmi Corporation]]<ref name="GIbiz: ValuSoft" />
|-
! scope="row" | XDG (External Development Group)
| {{N/A}}
| {{dts|2006|03}}<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/thq-establishes-outsourcing-unit |title=THQ establishes outsourcing unit |first=Paul |last=Loughrey |date=March 15, 2006 |website=[[GamesIndustry.biz]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200720021805/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/thq-establishes-outsourcing-unit |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{N/A}}
| {{N/A}}
|-
! scope="row" | Elephant Entertainment
| [[Minneapolis]]<ref name="SEC: 10-K 2008" />
| {{dts|2008|04|01}}<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/thq-acquires-elephant |title=THQ expands casual games portfolio |first=Mark |last=Androvich |date=April 1, 2008 |website=[[GamesIndustry.biz]] |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-date=July 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200720050857/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/thq-acquires-elephant |url-status=live}}</ref>
| {{N/A}}
| {{N/A}}
|}

==See also==
* [[List of THQ games]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
*[http://www.thq.com/ Official website] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131223214940/http://www.thq.com/ |date=December 23, 2013 }}
* {{Commons category-inline}}

{{THQ}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:THQ| ]]
[[Category:Companies based in Los Angeles County, California]]
[[Category:Companies formerly listed on the Nasdaq]]
[[Category:Companies that filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2012]]
[[Category:Defunct video game companies of the United States]]
[[Category:Video game companies disestablished in 2013]]
[[Category:Video game companies established in 1990]]
[[Category:Video game development companies]]
[[Category:Video game publishers]]