Codemasters to enter MMOG market with RF Online in '06

Codemasters has signed a new sci-fi/fantasy Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Game from developer CCR, called Rising Force Online, set for release on the PC in 2006.

A popular title in Korea (with over a million players in the Far East since its launch last year), RF Online is a mixture of magical fantasy and futuristic sci-fi, set in the deep space galaxy of Novus. Players can choose from three powerful warring factions, before leadings character into the final battle for control over the entire galaxy.

Each race has its own characteristics, skills, and abilities, with a choice from the Bellato Union and their Mech battle units, the Holy Alliance Cora; a mystical and fantasy-orientated race, or the Accretia Empire; a futuristic robotic species.

"The signing of RF Online is a key achievement for Codemasters Online Group," said Phil White, head of MMO Games for Codemasters Online Gaming. "CCR's wealth of expertise has created a hugely immersive world that has enthralled players and become one of the dominant MMOs in the Far East. We are delighted to partner with CCR and bring RF Online to the western markets."

Ed Relf, head of marketing for Codemasters Online Gaming, added: "We are ecstatic to confirm RF Online as the first MMO project from Codemasters Online Gaming. RF Online is a proven and highly successful Far Eastern title that represents a new and fresh approach to the MMO genre, mixing popular elements with a vast array of exciting and unique features that will appeal to the core audience."

The announcement of the firm's deal with CCR follows the cancellation some months ago of Codemasters' own MMOG project, Dragon Empires, which had been in development for several years.

Codemasters Online Gaming will publish RF Online for the PC, in the US and UK, early 2006. For more information, visit the official website.