Harmonix Up For Sale

The developer of the first ‘Guitar Hero’ games and the current ‘Rock Band’ game franchise,  Harmonix Music Systems, Inc., is on the block, according to the third quarter earnings release announced this week by parent-company, Viacom Inc.

In the release, Viacom notes it has already classified Cambridge-based Harmonix as a “discontinued business,” citing that losses from the continuing drop in sales of games such as ‘Rock Band’ was having a negative impact on its otherwise solid numbers.

John Drake, Harmonix spokesperson, posted the following response online:

We’ve seen a lot of questions pop up in response to Viacom’s statements this morning regarding their intention to sell Harmonix… This morning’s announcement does not affect the ongoing work at the studio as we continue to support our existing franchises, ‘Rock Band’ and ‘Dance Central.’ As stated earlier, Viacom is in discussions with several potential buyers and will continue to fully support the business until a sale is completed.