MapleStory to Feature Retail Giants In-Game
Virtual Worlds Changing the Way Retailers Market
Los Angeles, CA - December 3, 2007 - Nexon America Inc., the U.S. division of Asia's leading online entertainment company Nexon Group, whose Game Cards are available at retail giants such as Target, Best Buy, and 7-Eleven, Inc., announced today plans to integrate its mega store partners into MapleStory, its most popular game. Nexon America is educating their players on the availability of the Nexon Game Cards through outlets such as Best Buy, CVS, Duane Reade and 7-Eleven, by bringing the stores to the players virtually.
This partnership between Nexon America, a leader in virtual goods sales, and major retailers is unprecedented. Nexon America will send its millions of MapleStory players to the virtual markets with themed quests that will promote both the retailers and the availability of Nexon Game Cards in these stores. The special quests will prompt users to complete various tasks and visit any of these chains to earn their own virtual Nexon Game Card, which will provide Maple Points, the in-game currency of MapleStory.
"We're now able to provide a new and unique avenue for major businesses to reach consumers," said John H. Chi, CEO and president of Nexon America. "Nexon creates the exclusive, branded content, retailers receive a powerful, direct line of communication and our players get a new, rewarding gameplay experience. High visibility through new content and interactive rewards makes it a win for everyone!"
"Consumers feel more and more at home online so it makes sense for 7-Eleven to become a part of popular virtual worlds, such as MapleStory," said Brad Haga, 7-Eleven® stores' senior product director for business development and services. "Our more than 5,500 U.S. locations and 24/7 operation makes it easy to pick up a prepaid Nexon card. A virtual 7-Eleven store in MapleStory allows us to better connect with a very important demographic playing in the world of MapleStory, while also offering a fun and interactive experience for users."
Nexon America is an attractive partner for retailers because it provides a dedicated and entertained community. Special events are ongoing throughout the holiday season to promote the spirit and culture of MapleStory. Players are not only immersed within the game, but can take part in real-world events, too. Such events include a photo submission contest of a Maple Story-themed holiday meal and an upcoming poetry contest awarding the winner a custom poster and original concept art. These contests offer a creative venue to showcase the real-life talents of Maplers for the enjoyment of the entire Nexon community.
Nexon America is busy this holiday season bringing the best of online entertainment to its fans. By ambitiously placing its partners into the game, Nexon America is providing a unique experience for its North American users. For more information regarding MapleStory events and promotions, log onto http://maplestory.nexon.net.
About MapleStory
MapleStory continues to expand in North America as one of the fastest growing massively multiplayer online role playing games (MMORPG). Averaging 45,000 new registered users a week, the award-winning game is known for its robust community and the ability to personalize game characters in endless combinations. Filled with vibrant backgrounds and charming characters, players interact with each other online through chatting, trading, fun mini-games as well as participating in exciting game play. Groups of players can also ally together in parties or guilds to socialize, hunt monsters, and venture through the immersive lands on thrilling quests.
About Nexon America Inc.
Nexon America Inc. is the North American publishing arm of Nexon Group, a pioneer of interactive entertainment software and the world's leader in massively multiplayer online games. Based in Los Angeles, Nexon America was founded in 2005 to bring the best of online entertainment to the North American audience. The company's growing library of titles includes the world famous franchise MapleStory, the online multiplayer dance game, Audition and the new racing sensation KartRider. The foundation of all Nexon America titles is the Item Selling business model, in which users access the full game for free and can later opt to pay for game enhancements.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Hillary L. Lyons
Nexon America Inc.
213-858-5930
hlyons@nexon.net
Bob Holtzman
Nexon America Inc.
213-858-5930
rholtzman@nexon.net