Webzen signs deal with Red 5 Studios

Yesterday saw a bit of news regarding an American publisher's distribution plans to bring a Korean developer's massively multiplayer online game to the rest of the world. Interest in foreign MMOs is apparently a two-way street, as today Korean publisher Webzen announced an exclusive deal with American developer Red 5 Studios to bring its new MMO to market.

Red 5 Studios was formed last September by former World of Warcraft developers, including team lead Mark Kern, art director William Petras, and online director for Asia Taewon Yoon. The Red 5 team's Blizzard credentials also stretch back to previous hits from the company, including Diablo II, Warcraft III, and the Starcraft series.

"Webzen is becoming a huge force in the global online games marketplace," said Kern, Red 5's president and CEO. "Their commitment and determination partnered with our unique game concept is a winning combination for a blockbuster title."

No details or platforms for Red 5's game were announced, but it was said to be in its "initial stages of development."

This is not Webzen's first foray into international MMO publishing. Last year the company signed on to publish Scottish developer Real Time Worlds' upcoming Xbox 360 and PC MMO, APB.