Edit: The poor google translation has been replaced with a more official english translation that also includes some small quotes. Sources: Earthtimes and PRNewsWire

I’m pretty sure anyone who follows this site saw this coming:

BEIJING, April 22 Perfect World Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq: PWRD) (“Perfect World” or the “Company”), a leading online game developer and operator in China, today announced that it has entered into a publishing agreement with Runic Games, Inc. (“Runic Games”), a specialized developer of PC-based entertainment software inthe United States, for the exclusive rights and license to publish “Torchlight,” an action-packed massively multiplayer online role-playing game (“Action-MMORPG”) that’s being developed, throughout the world.

Being developed by Runic Games’ experienced team of industry veterans, “Torchlight” is an adventure-themed Action-MMORPG. Adventurers set out from the town of Torchlight into the nearby mountains in search of the magic ore that imbues their equipment with power, yet imperils their very existence. “Torchlight” emphasizes a simple and intuitive interface, fast and furious action, and a colorful and compelling game world.

Mr. Max Schaefer, Chief Executive Officer of Runic Games, said, “Runic Games is very pleased to partner with Perfect World. Perfect World’s strength and expertise in creating and running MMORPGs and track record of high quality of service to the playing community give us great confidence and hopes for a long and prosperous partnership. With ‘Torchlight,’ we strive to bring the best of Western and Eastern gaming together, creating a truly global title.”

Mr. Michael Chi, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Perfect World commented, “We are very pleased to cooperate with Runic Games, whose members have a first-rate track record. Leveraging Perfect World’s marketing capabilities and deep understanding of Asian culture and player preferences, ‘Torchlight’ is expected to be a ‘global title,’ catering to the tastes of both Western and Eastern players. In addition to our involvement in game development leveraging our extensive experience with MMORPG, we will also strive to demonstrate our excellent game operating ability and to offer players unique and exciting online game experience. We treasure this opportunity to work with the professional team of Runic Games, and look forward to the success of ‘Torchlight,’ as a cornerstone for the long-term strategic relationship between Runic Games and Perfect World.”

About Runic Games, Inc.

Runic Games is a developer of PC-based entertainment software, designing games that focus on quality, approachability, and fun. Runic Games is staffed by team with experienced members, including leads on “Diablo,” “Diablo II,” “Diablo II: Lord of Destruction,” “Fate,” “Hellgate: London” and “Mythos.” Runic Games is located in Seattle, Washington, United States.

What can we read into this? It gives us a clue as to why will spend our time underground and only have one above ground town to visit. The magic ore the imbues equipment and imperils the character sounds like a hint to a game mechanic. Time will tell!

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