On Thursday, The Yucaipa Companies, fronted by ex-Disney mogul Michael Ovitz and Richard Wolpert, announced an equity investment in GameSpy Industries, the maker of popular multiplayer game matchmaking software GameSpy and music streamerMP3Spy. The investment also covers over 30 Internet sites.

　　"Having the backing of Michael Ovitz and The Yucaipa Companies is a fantastic endorsement for GameSpy Industries," said Mark Surfas, president of GameSpy Industries. "We are moving into high gear to create unparalleled online entertainment experiences for everyone from game players to music lovers. This investment will help significantly in fulfilling our goals."

　　Claiming over four million users, GameSpy appears to be a good investment for the group. Yucaipa has been looking to expand its Internet and entertainment portfolio.

　　"We are thrilled to add GameSpy Industries to our Internet and entertainment investment portfolio," said Ovitz. "GameSpy's proven leadership in multiplayer gaming and their strong commitment to providing easy access to online entertainment with MP3Spy is a natural fit with our strategy to help build strong Internet and entertainment companies on the Web."

　　While financial information regarding the deal was not disclosed, the group has completed some 16 mergers and acquisitions totaling $30 billion. The investment in the company will allow GameSpy the chance to branch out its efforts into new realms while enhancing its stronghold on Internet gaming.

　　The deal also makes Wolpert a member of GameSpy's board. "GameSpy's strong position in the multiplayer gaming arena coupled with their planned expansion into additional online entertainment areas will help take them to the next level as market leaders," said Wolpert.