MINNEAPOLIS, MN, February 13, 2007 ¨C Korea`s most popular and highly acclaimed massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG), Granado Espada, is coming to retail throughout North America and Europe this summer under the its newly announced name of Sword of the New World: Granado Espada, courtesy of Elephant Entertainment.
Winner of the 2006 Grand Award for Best Game in Korea, Sword of the New World is being made available at retail through an agreement between Elephant Entertainment and leading online game publisher, K2 Network.
"With a game of this pedigree and potential, publishing a retail complement to the online counterpart is an ideal way to expand availability for consumers," said Wim Stocks, CEO and president of Elephant Entertainment. "Sword of the New World has several innovative and exciting design elements that combined will set a new precedent for MMORPGs, and we are pleased to be working with K2 Network in bringing it to the North American and European retail markets."
In support of the retail boxed version, Elephant Entertainment and K2 Network are implementing several retailer-specific pre-sell and launch programs, as well as an array of consumer promotions that are designed to enhance the online experience.
Adds Joshua Hong, CEO of K2 Network: "Whether purchasing online or via retail, consumers will receive one of the most captivating MMORPGs to date as Sword of the New World brings stunning beauty and innovation to the category."
Sword of the New World is a fantasy MMORPG whose story is modeled after Europe`s exploration of the New World and is comprised of thrilling missions and heroic quests. Already a highly anticipated game within the online community, Sword of the New World is the first MMORPG that allows players to control three characters simultaneously, resulting in a fast-moving game filled with strategic daring and intense combat.
About Elephant Entertainment
Elephant Entertainment LLC is a new publishing company specializing in bringing innovative game and entertainment content to the retail marketplace. Elephant Entertainment achieves this via unique and compelling retail distribution and consumer availability models, encompassing accessibility both in-store and online. Elephant Entertainment publishes within the spectrum of gaming experiences -- from casual games to massively multiplayer experiences -- publishing on all major gaming platforms. Elephant Entertainment is proudly headquartered in Minneapolis, MN, home of The Replacements, Prince, Tapes and Tapes, The Minnesota Twins, and Brit`s Pub and Eating Establishment, with branch offices in Chicago, Seattle, New York City, Dallas, and London. The Elephant Entertainment website (www.elephant-entertainment.com) is currently under construction.
About K2 Network
K2 Network, an online game publisher and community service management company, publishes and services highly engaging online games and cultivates dynamic player environments. The company puts "Gamers First" with compelling titles, exciting communities, creative pricing models, quality customer service, and frequent updates based on user requests. K2 Network currently offers War Rock, Knight Online, Global MU Online and Golf King. Company headquarters are in Irvine, CA. More information can be found at www.k2network.net.
About imcGAMES
imcGAMES was established in 2003 and strives to Impress, Motivate and Connect by creating the highest quality games to make a deep impression. Second, they seek to imbue in their games a passionate and perpetual sense of motivation. Third, they foster new connections to enable relationships for each person who plays their games. imcGAMES is staffed by people dedicated not only to making players happy, but also to enjoying their work. www.IMC.co.kr
About HanbitSoft
HanbitSoft, established in 1999, is one of the largest online game publishers in Korea as well as in Asia. After establishing itself as the No. 1 publisher in Korean PC game market, HanbitSoft has continuously invested in developing and publishing excellent and promising online games. HanbitSoft has broad portfolio of online games ranging from casual games to high-end MMORPG`s, either developed in-house or by external development studios such as Studio Mars (Neo Steam) and imcGAMES (Granado Espada). Most of its games already have been introduced in the Asian market as well as in the North and South American market. For example, PangYa, a fantasy-themed online golf game, is now in commercial service in more than 12 countries including Japan, USA and Brazil. Now, HanbitSoft is focusing on pioneering overseas online game markets in an effort to be a "global leading publisher." www.hanbitsoft.com.
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