Gamelook.com.cn, 7/10/12

An industry source revealed today that Beijing-based online game developer and operator Perfect World (Nasdaq: PWRD) has licensed the upcoming action real-time strategy game DOTA 2 from U.S.-based developer Valve Corporation in an agreement covering operator rights for at least the Mainland China region, and possibly other regions.

Although DOTA 2 is still in beta, it became the second most-popular game on Valve's Steam platform in May, with PCU counts of more than 50,000 users. Gamers can buy access to the closed beta for USD 39.90 at present, and will receive free in-game armor and props with their purchase. An in-game store system was launched in early June.

A number of senior Valve executives visited China over the past several months in order to find the best operator for DOTA 2. Earlier this month, Perfect World's North American subsidiary announced that its FPS Blacklight: Retribution had become available through the Steam platform.

Keywords: Valve Blacklight: Retribution FPS Perfect World closed beta Internet PCU PWRD DOTA 2 licensed game online gaming RTS operating rights