NetDragon Websoft
| Template:SEHK | |
| Genre | massively multiplayer online games |
| Founded | May 1999 |
| Headquarters | , China |
Number of employees | 3300 (2014) |
| Subsidiaries | JumpStart Games |
| Website | http://ir.netdragon.com/ |
NetDragon Websoft is a Chinese enterprise specializing in the creation and operation of massively multiplayer online games and mobile applications, with its inaugural product released in 2002.
Several of its domestically developed games incorporate Western IP from companies such as Disney, Electronic Arts, and Ubisoft. Additionally, proprietary IP-based titles are distributed throughout regions including the CIS, the Middle East, North Africa, Portugal, Russia, and Vietnam. A number of these games are also accessible in English.
Prior to divesting this business unit to Baidu, NetDragon managed a mobile application marketplace that featured its own gaming and software products. The company set itself apart by circumventing third-party distribution platforms, instead requiring consumers to install a dedicated application to access its content, thereby enhancing visibility for its portfolio.
The firm’s headquarters, completed in 2014 in Fuzhou, garnered media interest due to its architectural design modeled after the Starship Enterprise from Star Trek.
Education
NetDragon Websoft ventured into the education industry in 2010 with the objective of establishing "the largest learning community globally."
Significant acquisitions and collaborations include:
- Partnership with the University of North Texas to create the UNT-NetDragon Digital Research Centre.
- Acquisition of Edmodo on April 8, 2018, broadening its international educational network.
- Purchase of American educational software developer JumpStart Games in July 2017.
- Complete acquisition of UK-listed company Promethean World in 2015.
Sale of 91 Wireless
In 2013, NetDragon divested its app store, 91 Wireless, to Baidu for $1.85 billion, representing one of the largest transactions within China’s IT sector. Holding a stake below 58% in 91 Wireless, NetDragon realized approximately $1.06 billion from the deal.
The 91 Wireless platform provided a wide array of mobile applications, encompassing games and utilities ranging from fortune-telling to financial management.
CSR
The organization supports the Fujian NetDragon Youth Business Foundation, which aids young entrepreneurs in launching small enterprises.
See also
- Disney Fantasy Online
- Heroes of Might and Magic Online
- Transformers Online
- 91kt.com
- 91 Wireless
- Edmodo
- Promethean World
- JumpStart