It has been reported that Game group has purchased multiplayer service host Multiplay for £20 million.

The UK retailer will pay £12.6 million up front and will see the company take whole ownership which includes its events business.

Multiplay was founded in 1997 by Craig Fletcher and organises 150 gaming events annually, including the Insomnia festival in Coventry which was attended by 67,000 people last year and a further 1.4 million logged in online.

Chief executive, Martyn Gibbs said "The acquisition of Multiplay is an exciting and strategically important step for GAME," adding "The world of live events, eSports and multiplayer gaming is growing rapidly and one we have been looking to enter for some time. By acquiring Multiplay we are benefitting from nearly two decades of experience, during which time Multiplay has built an exceptional reputation and leading position in its markets. Multiplay has a great management team and a fantastic culture - their passion and enthusiasm for games is infectious."

Founder Craig Fletcher will remain the CEO and the Multiplay and Insomnia “brands” will remain unchanged.