UPDATE 1-THQ to buy role-playing game publisher

(Recasts, adds details)

Jan 15 (Reuters) - Video game publisher THQ Inc (THQI.O) said it plans to acquire privately held Big Huge Games, a development studio focused on the role-playing game segment, without disclosing financial terms.

Timonium, Maryland-based Big Huge's portfolio includes games such as "Rise of Legends," "Age of Empires: The Asian Dynasties" and "Catan." The 100-person studio was founded in 2000.

The two companies signed a deal in 2007 to develop a role-playing game title for Microsoft Corp's (MSFT.O) Xbox 360 video game and Sony Corp's (6758.T) (SNE.N) PlayStation 3.

Agoura Hills, California-based THQ, which competes with Electronic Arts Inc (ERTS.O), publishes software for popular game consoles including Xbox 360, PS3 and Nintendo Co Ltd's (7974.OS) Wii.

THQ's titles include "WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008" and a sequel to a game based on Pixar movie "Cars." (Reporting by John Tilak in Bangalore; Editing by Bernard Orr)