Computer games retailer Game PLC, with head offices in Basingstoke, said a strong market and a raft of hit games releases had helped it beat expectations in the first half of the year.

The firm said it was “slightly ahead” of hopes thanks to new titles including Grand Theft Auto IV and Nintendo’s Wii Fit. Other big sellers for the company included Mario Kart and Metal Gear Solid 4.

Demand for consoles also shows no sign of wavering, the group added, as UK like-for-like sales rose 28.1% in the 22 weeks to June 28.

Although Basingstoke-based Game said the quality of the games released during the first half of 2008 was “unprecedented”, it remained confident over Christmas trading.Chairman Peter Lewis said the group “recognised the challenges of the wider economic environment”, but has improved its margins and expects profits for the six months to July 31 to be no less than £33 million.

The company, which bought rival Gamestation last year, said it was continuing with its roll-out of new stores despite the difficult climate and investing £42 million on capital expenditure.

The group currently has 668 stores in the UK and Ireland, but most of the 60 stores to be opened by the end of the year will be overseas as part of its international growth strategy.

Source Press Association

Website: Game Group PLC