Take-Two Packaging New "Civilization" Game for South Korea

The Wall Street Journal reports that U.S. based Take-Two, the developer of the hit franchise "Grand Theft Auto," is seeking to make inroads in the Asian game market by repackaging its titles to suit local tastes and partnering with local game publishers.  Take-Two Interactive has partnered with the South Korean company XLGAMES, Inc. to bring the "Civilization" franchise (a turn based strategy game) to the South Korean gaming market.  There is plenty of opportunity in the Asian gaming market; the South Korean market reached $5 billion last year while the Chinese market reached $6 billion.
 
Certain turn-based computer strategy games are a hit in South Korea.  "Starcraft," an immensely popular turn-based strategy game, is so popular in South Korea that it is equated with sport, or more appropriately, e-sport.  The Korean e-sports Association (KeSPA) serves to manage the broadcasting and promotion of e-sports throughout the nation.

Take-Two to Asia

KeSPA