Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. has announced that it has opened a new development studio under its 2K label in Shanghai, China. The new studio, 2K Shanghai, is completing development of the Chinese-language version of Sid Meier's
Civilization: IV for the PC expected to be available later this summer.
2K Shanghai will develop new original IP and co-develop products with other 2K studios around the world. Additionally, 2K Shanghai will serve as a hub for sales, marketing, development and outsourcing opportunities in China.
"There is an enormous amount of development talent in China and it is also a great market for some of our franchises," said Christoph Hartmann, President, 2K. "With this studio, 2K is poised to participate in this rapidly emerging gaming market."
Other notable Western firms increasing their Chinese presence include Ubisoft, who has a significant development arm in Shanghai. Korean firms such as NCSoft are also increasing their presence in China, which is poised to be one of the biggest longer-term growth markets for both the video game market and consumer products in general.
