One of Singapore’s largest video game publishing and distribution company, GCL Global, has announced the signing of a first-of-its-kind partnership deal in the region between its subsidiary Epicsoft Asia (EPA), and NetEase Interactive Entertainment (NetEase Games), a subsidiary of one of China’s largest gaming firm and leading internet technology company, NetEase, Inc.

The 5-year agreement, effective as of 6 January 2023, designated EPA as an exclusive partner to market, sell and distribute NetEase games and their software products. The list includes Steam activation keys and physical gift cards in authorised regions. This comprises 11 countries and regions — Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

Prior to this, GCL was the sole distribution partner for some of the biggest game publishers in the world, such as Take-Two, CD Projekt Red, SEGA and WB Games, in Southeast Asia and the Greater China regions. The company has distributed numerous award-winning hits to the region including Hogwarts Legacy, Grand Theft Auto V, Red Dead Redemption II, Cyberpunk 2077, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Elden Ring, and many more.

NetEase Interactive Entertainment Pte Ltd. said:

“GCL has a proven track record as the largest partner for international PC & video games publishers and developers in East Asia and Southeast Asia. They are a powerhouse in the industry, and have introduced gaming experiences that are visceral and immersive to the larger market. Their appetite for quality and avenues for quantity distribution makes them a compelling choice as NetEase Game’s exclusive regional distribution partner.”

As a NASDAQ-listed company, NetEase Games is one of the largest gaming companies in China, and a leading global internet and video gaming giant. The company develops and operates some of China’s most popular and longest-running mobile and PC games, including Eggy Party, Diablo Immortal, LifeAfter, and Identity V. Powered by industry-leading R&D capabilities, NetEase Games looks to create superior gaming experiences, inspire players, and passionately deliver value for its thriving community worldwide.

The first title slated to be released under the agreement is Naraka: Bladepoint, developed by 24 Entertainment and published by NetEase Montreal. This title represents a widely popular, action and adventure battle royale. All the games will support English, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Thai as language options.

Jacky Choo, Group Chairman of GCL, said:

“EPA has been a disruptive force within game publishing in the region. Our 16 years of experience in marketing and creative media design capabilities make us confident in achieving the distribution targets for Naraka: Bladepoint. It is a moment of great pride for us to be at the helm of affairs as a partner to NetEase Games. We look forward to furthering our relationship with additional software products and games to be rolled out in this ever-growing games and entertainment market.”

Looking towards the future, both companies have agreed to discuss the inclusion of new software products, and renegotiations for additional versions and territories for each software product if required.