China.com Inc., an 81%-owned subsidiary of CDC Corporation (CHINA), today announced that the Company has increased its shareholding of Beijing 17game Network Technology Company from 36.5% to 48%.
17game's latest online game, "Yulgang," has received strong market reception since the open beta test in April 2005. Commercially
launched in mid-July, Yulgang's continues to grow with peak concurrent users now exceeding 160,000 and over 6 million registered users. According to 17173.com, it is one of the most popular Massive Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games in China, amongst over 40 new games launched this year.
Yulgang initiated a distinctive revenue model for MMORPG in China by generating revenue selling value-added virtual merchandise and services through its online game shop, rather than charging game users for time spent.
Under the existing investment agreement, China.com has the right to ultimately acquire up to 100% in 17game over time.
