RealNetworks buys brazilian web site Atrativa

RealNetworks Inc., a maker of software for listening to music and playing games on the Internet, bought Brazilian gaming site Atrativa to further its global expansion.

Atrativa, based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, also distributes games to local Web sites in South America, RealNetworks said in a statement today. Terms weren't disclosed.

The acquisition strengthens RealNetworks' game distribution in South America and follows last year's purchase of the Netherlands' Zylom Media Group BV, a similar company in Europe. RealNetworks has also started a game downloading service in China as it expands its fastest-growing business.

RealNetwork said in November that second-quarter revenue at its games unit rose 53 percent to $22.5 million. Music revenue increased 16 percent to $30.4 million. The company operates the Rhapsody online music service.

Shares of Seattle-based RealNetworks declined 29 cents, or 2.6 percent, to $10.74 yesterday in Nasdaq Stock Market trading.

(Published by Bloomberg, February 6, 2007)