Dell looks to add gamer cred with Alienware acquisition

MIAMI (AP) _ Dell, the world's largest computer maker, was long known for cheap, high-quality computers that didn't have much style or cachet among hardcore video gamers. <br/><br/>But Dell is

Thursday, March 23rd 2006, 11:21 am

By: News On 6

MIAMI (AP) _ Dell, the world's largest computer maker, was long known for cheap, high-quality computers that didn't have much style or cachet among hardcore video gamers.

But Dell is taking another step to shake up that reputation. It's buying Miami-based Alienware. The company's high-ends P-Cs are widely acclaimed by gaming fanatics for their fast performance and sleek, U-F-O-themed looks.

Dell hasn't announced terms of the deal, which will help expand its offerings for the lucrative gaming and multimedia market. Dell says Alienware would operate as a wholly owned subsidiary and will keep its brand name and many of its own operations.

Alienware was founded in 1996 by Nelson Gonzalez and Alex Aguila, two childhood friends who have built a cult-like following for their P-Cs that cost an average of about three- to four-thousand dollars. They will continue to run the company as a standalone unit of Round Rock, Texas-based Dell.