MTV Games’ parent company Viacom has a nearly unfathomable amount of money invested in the Rock Band franchise, and now that the once-burgeoning rhythm genre isn’t doing so hot, they’re looking to get some of that money back.

Gamasutra reports that Viacom plans on seeking a partial refund on the $150 million, performance-based bonus they paid out to developer Harmonix back in 2008. “At December 31, 2009, we believe that we are entitled to a refund of a substantial portion of amounts previously paid, but the final amount of the earn-out has not yet been determined,” reads a Viacom filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

Shortly after these bonuses were originally distributed, Viacom spokesperson Kelly McAndrew was quoted as saying, “We may not have anticipated the payment would be that high, but it’s based on what they have achieved. If they are making more money for us and we have to give a little back, that’s OK.”

View full post on 1UP RSS feed

Popularity: 1% [?]