Gamers in China will soon be able to create things out of virtual blocks when Minecraft launches in the country.
Microsoft announced on Friday that it is partnering up with Sweden-based game studio Mojang and Chinese Internet company NetEase.
Launched in 2009, Minecraft has more than 100 million registered players, and Microsoft is looking to increase that massive base by signing a five-year deal to license the hugely popular game's mobile and PC versions in China.
Microsoft-owned Mojang, the creator of Minecraft, will develop a version of Minecraft specifically made for the Chinese market. A release date for the game has not yet been announced and it is also uncertain if there will be any changes made to the new version.
NetEase is also the team behind the popular Blizzard video games, such as online collectible card game Hearthstone, and the role playing game World of Warcraft.
"We'll always embrace opportunities to bring Minecraft to new players around the world, widening our community, and giving us a new perspective on our game," Jonas Martensson, CEO of Mojang, said in a statement. "NetEase understands our long-term vision for Minecraft and supports Mojang's ideals, so we're delighted to have them on board. We look forward to welcoming China's builders and adventurers to the world of Minecraft."
A hilarious video featuring Minecraft developer Jens Bergensten speaking in Chinese and performing martial arts has also been posted to YouTube, according to Gamespot.
"[T]his is significant news," Owen Hill, who handles creative communications at Mojang AB, said in a company blog post.
Microsoft bought Mojang for $2.5 billion in 2014.
"We are excited to bring Minecraft to Chinese audiences, and expect our large online community to embrace this preeminent game," William Ding, CEO and founder of NetEase, said in a statement. "With our deep understanding of the Chinese market and our ability to successfully launch world-renowned online and mobile games, we offer a strong platform for the introduction of Minecraft to China's vast user base. We believe this cooperation could leverage the strengths of both Mojang and NetEase, as well as provide the world's largest audience with a superior user experience."
Photo: Sergey Galyonkin | Flickr
