MTV Networks Brings Korean MMOGs To North America

During Korea's GSTAR 2006 Gameshow, officials from Viacom division MTV Networks announced a new partnership with Korean online game publisher Nexon (Kingdom of the Wind) to market a portion of Nexon's catalog of casual MMOG titles in North America. The new deal includes three of Nexon's existing titles: Maple Story, Audition, and Kart Rider. Each title will be marketed by MTV Networks both online and via MTV's assortment of television networks. According to a statement released by MTV Networks, the new partnership also includes the possibility for Nexon to create and develop MTV Networks' branded items within its games. In addition, as part of the new partnership, Nexon and MTV Networks will also work to enhance MTV Network's popular online casual game property Neopets by introducing premium virtual items for purchase for customization and personalization, in addition to those currently available. Nexon will also provide marketing and promotional support for Neopets in Asia through its existing web portal. "We are delighted to establish this mutually beneficial partnership with one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms and the premier media partner in North America for Nexon's wide ranging target audience,” commented David Lee, CEO of Nexon Japan. “We are confident that through the alliance, Neopets will gain strong momentum in successfully serving its users with more value added services and that Nexon will be able to rapidly expand in the North American market.”