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With its core business of Facebook games struggling to maintain the market dominance it once enjoyed, Zynga is branching out into new categories on mobile – with the help of Tiger Woods.
The company has announced licensing agreements with Tiger Woods, the National Football League and NFL Players Inc that will allow it to develop and publish American football and golf games for mobile platforms.
The titles will be released under a new brand, Zynga Sports 365, with the first game – NFL Showdown – launching around the world soon.
"As a sports fan, I am particularly excited about our Sports expansion and being able to share this exciting news with you," said COO Clive Downie. "I believe that by combining our expertise with the NFL, NFL Players Inc. and Tiger Woods, we can create next-generation mobile football and golf games for consumers around the world."
Tiger Woods previously headlined Electronic Arts’ PGA Tour titles, until the two ended their 15-year partnership in October last year. This Zynga deal marks his return to gaming.
The company has also expanded its offerings in the Runner category and signed a multi-year agreement with Warner Bros to license the Looney Tunes brand. Zynga plans to launch its first Looney Tunes mobile game before Christmas.
Zynga recently hired former Xbox boss Don Mattrick as its new CEO.
