The Long Story About KartRider

October 2, 2007 - Nexon America Inc., the U.S. division of Asia's leading online games company Nexon Group, has given the green light for KartRider open beta testing, adding to immense buzz already generated by the game's closed beta. KartRider, the free-to-download, free-to-play online multiplayer racing game, boasts over 160 million users worldwide, supporting its preeminent status as an international sensation and gaming phenomenon. With the open beta scheduled for October 2nd, Nexon's latest online colossus is being shifted into high gear in preparation for the eagerly awaited official launch date. More information can be found at http://kart.nexon.net.

KartRider fuses the thrill of addicting, old-school multiplayer kart riding mayhem with innovative track design and customization options. Fueling this mix with millions of uniquely created character personalities and endless kart modifications, KartRider is poised to offer a new experience in the world of online games. KartRider's accessibility (easy-to-learn, hard-to-master controls), convenience (games typically last a few minutes), and genuinely thrilling races, has earned the game immense popularity overseas; over 30% of the South Korean population has played KartRider. Nexon America plans to make a similar splash with its North American release.

KartRider's open beta will be open to anyone with an internet connection and the need for speed. With several distinct characters to choose from, open beta racers will compete on a multitude of elaborate race courses ranging from the smooth asphalt of Zoomtown to the scorching sands of Desert Drift. The open beta will additionally provide testers with two different karts, numerous paint and license plate modifications, a scenario/story mode, and a useful 'My Garage' feature. The 'My Garage' feature included in open beta allows users to hang out with friends, modify and show off karts, and try out new items if racers are in need of a pit stop.

Open beta testers can also enjoy different single and team race modes including item mode, an anything-goes mode featuring the use of creative items used to gain an edge, and speed mode, a test of driving skill focusing solely on speed and drift. While item mode racing often results in humorous exchanges and unpredictable outcomes, speed mode rewards drivers for their drift technique. By combining the elements and weapons of a fantasy racer with the precision of drift, KartRider blends an optimal balance between racers who prefer either the spontaneity of item use or the driving skill required by drifting.

KartRider fans can check on http://kart.nexon.net for more news and updates regarding open beta and official launch. Nexon plans a pedal-to-the-metal onslaught of promotions, contests, and events in coordination with KartRider's launch schedule to drive this title to success!