The Japanese-based video-game giant announced an agreement to purchase all outstanding shares in Next Level Games for an undisclosed sum, in a deal expected to close on March 1, subject to various approvals. (The Logic)

Talking point: Next Level has been developing video games for an assortment of platforms for nearly two decades, but in recent years it’s been working exclusively with Nintendo. Its titles for the Nintendo 3DS and Switch systems including the Luigi’s Mansion series, Super Mario Strikers and the Wii remake of Punch-Out!! Owner-directors and employees hold all of Next Level Games’ shares, and Nintendo said the developer started to explore a possible sale after “a number of owner-directors recently determined that the time is right for them to sell their shares.” In a statement, Nintendo said the acquisition will help it secure development expertise, and increase speed and quality through closer communication between the two companies. Next Level Games did not respond to The Logic’s request for comment by time of publication.