OptimusPoker Closing

Saturday May 11,2013 :  OPTIMUS POKER BIDS THE INDUSTRY FAREWELL 
 
Is this a sale-to-network deal?
 
The Merge Poker Network skin Optimus Poker.eu has closed its US-facing virtual doors, apparently after being acquired by the network.
 
A website notice this week informed players that "…OptimusPoker recently transferred to Merge Gaming Limited certain assets which form part of the OptimusPoker brand. As a result, OptimusPoker will cease to operate OptimusPoker.eu as of 00:00 (EST) on May 8, 2013."
 
The notification goes on to assure players that their funds are secure; and that they will have access to these and the ability to play on the Merge Gaming Network. All player funds will continue to be managed by Merge Gaming.
 
A similar advisory was directed at affiliate marketers serving the brand, but informing them that Merge "….will not assume the OptimusPoker affiliate network, nor will they assume any of OptimusPoker's obligations arising from OptimusPoker’s existing affiliate agreements.
 
"Any revenue you have earned through today with OptimusPoker will be paid in its usual manner, but we sincerely regret to inform you that this change will reflect a new affiliate policy. Should you wish to continue working with a Merge Gaming partner, you can find the full listing of partners at www.MergeGaming.eu."
 
That means business lost for many affiliates who built up an Optimus Poker clientele, unfortunately.
 
No reasons were given for the apparent change of ownership, but this is not the first Merge skin to shut down in recent times; RPM and Hero Poker likewise failed to give explanations when they shut down their Merge operations.