Lazard's Sebastian predicts "slower ramp" on PS3
Lazard Capital analyst Colin Sebastian has predicted that THQ will retain its focus on Nintendo platforms and Microsoft's Xbox 360 - and be slow to increase its commitment to PS3.
Sebastian made his prediction after hosting investor meetings with THQ managament. The meetings followed the company's recent announcement of disappointing results for the second quarter of its fiscal 2008.
"We expect THQ to remain more closely aligned with Nintendo and Microsoft platforms over the next couple of years," Sebastian said.
"This reflects THQ’s historical strength on handhelds (GBA and DS), increasing development slate for Nintendo’s Wii, early success with titles on the Xbox 360 (e.g. Saints Row) and a slower ramp on the PS3."
He also said that THQ was optimistic for the success of its next title licensed from a Pixar fim. Wall-E is expected to have "broader consumer appeal" than recent release Ratatouille.
THQ also has high hopes for sequels to its own properties, Saints Row and Red Faction. It expects that 40 per cent of its revenues will come from internal studios in fiscal 2008, up from 30 per cent in fiscal 2006.
