AGOURA HILLS, CA – April 8, 2009 – Heralding the launch of
its new online games platform, THQ*ICE today revealed details about its first
product, Dragonica™ Online with the debut of the game’s web site located at
dragonica.thqice.com. Dragonica Online is being introduced as part of the joint
venture between THQ Inc. (NASDAQ: THQI) and ICE Entertainment ("ICE"), an
operator of online games located in Shanghai, China, to create
micro-transaction-based massively multiplayer online ("MMO") games that will be
available at www.thqice.com.
Recently available in China under the name Dream Dragon, where it has already
become one of the most popular MMOs , Dragonica Online merges innovative 3D
side-scrolling, fast-paced combat and a comical, yet devastating, skill system
into a single free-to-play MMO offering. The game is being developed by
Barunson Interactive and is scheduled to launch online and at retail this fall,
but fans can get a hands-on preview of the game when it opens for beta testing,
currently scheduled for summer.
“Our new online game platform integrates ICE’s online operating experience
with THQ’s product development and retail publishing expertise to develop and
deliver innovative game content to consumers,” said Eddie Chen, CEO of
THQ*ICE. “Dragonica Online exemplifies the original and entertaining
casual MMO experiences that we plan to offer via our platform and we believe its
distinct perspective and pacing will excite a broad audience of online action
fans.”
About Dragonica Online
At its core, Dragonica Online is a
fast-paced fantasy-action MMO whose unique 3D side-scrolling perspective brings
a new level of strategy to the category. Combat is fast and intense so
players need to master the unique attacks, combo chains and advanced skills of
their class to dominate. Multiple gameplay modes provide endless scenarios
for combat and exploration, as players face off against massive bosses, explore
mysterious dungeons or engage in PvP and Guild–on-Guild free-for-alls. Cash Shop
items and a diverse pet system help players customize their experience, while
social elements such as Player Matching and community celebrations, add a
collegial element to the game.
For additional information about Dragonica Online or to register and
receive product updates, please visit the official Web site at
dragonica.thqice.com.
About THQ*ICE
THQ*ICE is an online games operator
specializing in casual massively multiplayer online (MMO) games. As a
joint venture between THQ Inc. and ICE Entertainment, THQ*ICE combines THQ's
product development and retail publishing expertise with ICE's technology and
service operations experience. THQ*ICE is dedicated to building an online
platform of high quality games and premium content featuring free-to-play, micro
transaction models. Dragonica and its respective logo are trademarks
and/or registered trademarks of THQ*ICE LLC in the U.S.
About ICE Entertainment
Founded in 2006, ICE is an online
game operator based in Shanghai, China, with an established online technology
platform and proven management team, including CEO Sun Tao, former vice
president and chief technical officer of leading Chinese operator The9, among
others, with many years of experience in the online game field. ICE is focused
on the development and operation of massively multiplayer online games. More
information about ICE Entertainment may be found at http://www.icee.cn.
About THQ
THQ Inc. (NASDAQ: THQI) is a leading worldwide
developer and publisher of interactive entertainment software. The company
develops its products for all popular game systems, personal computers and
wireless devices. Headquartered in Los Angeles County, California, THQ sells
product through its global network of offices located throughout North America,
Europe and Asia Pacific. More information about THQ and its products may be
found at www.thq.com. THQ and the
THQ logo are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of THQ Inc.
