A plan to invest in and publish video games could boost Lions Gate Entertainment (LGF-A 4.50%) stock over the long term, Fool contributor Tim Beyers says in the following video.
Why the optimism when the gaming space is so crowded? Tim says Lions Gate hired well. Division chief Peter Levin comes over from Nerdist Industries, a budding digital empire that's since joined Legendary Pictures. Before that, he developed a track record for investing in media properties. Early bets included Angry Birds maker Rovio and GameSpy Industries, later sold to IGN.
In an interview with GamesBeat, Levin said his strategy won't allow for pigeonholing himself or Lions Gate. Instead, he plans to explore multiple avenues for publishing games based on key franchises such as The Hunger Games and Divergent.
Video games based on the Divergent franchise may be coming your way soon. Source: Lionsgate Entertainment.
Tim says that's encouraging, especially now that mobile games are gaining parity with console versions at a rate we've never seen. Dutch researcher Newzoo expects revenue from this segment to grow by 27.3% annually, hitting $23.9 billion by 2016.
On the other hand, Levin has no choice but to remain flexible. Walt Disney has found a profitable niche with Disney Infinity, while Time Warner continues to pump out hits based on its DC Comics properties. The latest -- Batman: Arkham Knight -- is due out this fall.
In the end, Lions Gate is simply trying to be more like its bigger peers. We've seen its strategy pay off in movies with The Hunger Games and Divergent, and in TV with Mad Men and Orange Is the New Black. Similar success in video games wouldn't be surprising, especially with a seasoned executive like Levin running point.
Now it's your turn to weigh in. Do you believe Lions Gate can succeed publishing and investing in video games? Please watch the video to get the full story and then leave a comment to let us know your take, including whether you would buy, sell, or short Lions Gate stock at current prices.
