Edition: U.S. / Global  COMPANY NEWS; Electronic Arts' Move
Reflects Industry Trend  Published: February 11, 1994
Electronic Arts' planned acquisition of Broderbund Software in a
$400 million stock swap, announced late Wednesday, reflects an
industry trend likely to influence the balance of power in the
emerging interactive television business.  Indeed, if the merger
succeeds, analysts and industry executives said today that the
two companies might be able to forge one of the dominant
production companies of the new digital age.  Broderbund
Software Inc., which had revenue of $95.6 million in its last
fiscal year, publishes interactive personal computer software
that includes "Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?" and the
educational "Living Books" series. Those programs, designed for
teen-agers and young children have helped make Broderbund one of
the best recognized household names in software. Popular Titles
Electronic Arts Inc., with more than three times the revenue of
Broderbund, produces both perso