IRVINE, Calif. – (August 22, 2007) – K2 Network, Inc. (www.k2network.net), an online game publisher, announced today that it has expanded its Free2Play model for the epic Age of Exploration MMORPG Sword of the New World: Granado Espada. The game is available for download in North America and Europe at www.swordofthenewworld.com. Sword of the New World initially launched as Free2play up to level 20, after which players purchased a monthly subscription to level characters beyond 20. All of that has changed, with no limitations on content, levels or areas to explore. For those players still seeking the premium experience, K2 has kept the Cash Merchant, which offers rare and sought after items to be purchased in-game.
“K2 Network’s Free2play model is the heart of our business,†said Joshua Hong, CEO and Founder of K2 Network. “We launched Sword of the New World as a Free2Play title - free to download, free to try, and free to play up to level 20. We are extremely excited about this title, especially with such gorgeous graphics and the ability to play up to three characters at once, but Free2Play up to level 20 just isn’t enough! At K2 Network, we put Gamers First, and thanks to the community supporting this game, we are now able to offer the same Free2Play model as all of our other titles. It’s Free2play all the way!â€
Sword of the New World: Granado Espada’s expanded Free2Play offer does not adversely affect paying subscribers in any way. Current subscribers who have an un-used paid month will receive 1,000 Cash Shop Gold in addition to all three web unique player characters: Adelina Esperanza, Lisa Lynway, and M’boma (a total value of 40 dollars US).
For more information about Sword of the New World: Granado Espada, please visit http://www.swordofthenewworld.com.
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About HanbitSoft
HanbitSoft, established in 1999, is one of the largest online game publishers in Korea as well as in Asia. After establishing itself as the No. 1 publisher in Korean PC game market, HanbitSoft has continuously invested in developing and publishing excellent and promising online games. HanbitSoft has a broad portfolio of online games ranging from casual games to high-end MMORPG’s, either developed in-house or by external development studios such as Studio Mars (Neo Steam) and imcGAMES (Granado Espada). Most of its games already have been introduced in the Asian market as well as in the North and South American markets. For example, PangYa, a fantasy-themed online golf game, is now in commercial service in more than 12 countries, including Japan, USA and Brazil. Now, HanbitSoft is focusing on pioneering overseas online game markets in an effort to be a “global leading publisher.†www.hanbitsoft.com
About imcGAMES
imcGAMES was established in 2003 and strives to Impress, Motivate and Connect by creating the highest quality games to make a deep impression. Second, they seek to imbue in their games a passionate and perpetual sense of motivation. Third, they foster new connections to enable relationships for each person who plays their games. imcGAMES is staffed by people dedicated not only to making players happy, but also to enjoying their work. www.imc.co.kr
About K2 Network
K2 Network publishes and services highly engaging online games and cultivates dynamic player environments. The company puts Gamers Firstâ„¢ by giving them free access to compelling titles, supporting their amazing communities, offering creative pricing models and updating games based on player feedback. K2 Network currently has over 10 million registered users and offers War Rock, Knight Online, Global MU Online, Red Stone and Sword of the New World: Granado Espada. K2 Network has an operational presence in the United States, Korea, and India. Read more about the company at www.K2Network.Net and find all of their games at GamersFirst.Net.