Virtual Worlds Forum

The usual comments apply about the deal, with China being a potentially huge market for online games, where a good local partner is essential for Western firms looking to break into the market. However, there's an added spin here: this year's Beijing Olympic Games. Giant clearly hopes that it'll be able to capitalise on Chinese sports fever by launching the MMO, which revolves around many sports, from football and basketball through to track & field and gymnastics. The question, of course, is how Giant keeps the momentum going once the Olympic Games are over. Giant Interactive Group website