The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) today announced the addition of GREE International, Inc., Mad Catz Interactive, Inc., and NetDragon Websoft Inc. to its membership roster. The trade association representing U.S. computer and video game publishers now has 34 members.
‘These new members are leaders in the breathtaking number of business models that exist to excite and reach today’s entertainment consumers,’ said Michael D. Gallagher, president and CEO of ESA. ‘We look forward to learning from them, and protecting their future success in critical areas such as e-commerce regulation, privacy, and intellectual property protection.’
GREE is one of the world’s largest mobile gaming companies, creating some of the top games in today’s market and a hugely successful mobile social platform in Japan. GREE most recently announced the worldwide beta for its new global mobile social games platform, which allows players around the world to interact through games and brings developers the social tools they need to deliver games to high-engagement audiences. GREE maintains its North American headquarters in San Francisco and recently acquired Funzio ‘ a leader in the mid-core mobile games market.
‘GREE is passionate about the mobile gaming industry here in North America and is committed to its growth and development,’ says Naoki Aoyagi, CEO of GREE International, Inc. ‘We are thrilled to become a member of the ESA, and take this important step in our ongoing focus to build the mobile gaming industry and create an ideal environment for developers, publishers, and players to thrive.’
San Diego-based Mad Catz Interactive, Inc. is a global provider of interactive entertainment products marketed primarily under its Mad Catz (casual gaming), Cyborg (pro gaming), Tritton (gaming audio), Saitek (simulation) and Eclipse (home and office) brands. Mad Catz also develops flight simulation software through its internal ThunderHawk Studios; operates a video game content website under its GameShark brand; publishes games under its Mad Catz Interactive brand; and distributes games and video game products for third parties.
‘ESA has a strong track record of steadfastly supporting its members,’ said Darren Richardson, president and CEO of Mad Catz Interactive, Inc. ‘We are eager to join the association’s ranks, and excited to share our unique perspective and experience with ESA leadership and fellow members.’
NetDragon Websoft Inc. is a leading innovator and creative force in China’s online and mobile game industries. Established in 1999, NetDragon Websoft develops and operates massively multiplayer online roleplaying games (MMORPG) such as Conquer Online, Eudemons Online, Zero Online, Heroes of Might and Magic Online, and Dungeon Keeper Online. The company also develops game technology and content for smartphones, and owns several mobile software platforms, including sj.91.com and hiapk.com, that feature a variety of games.