The two companies have not yet decided release dates

Mar 23, 2012 01:41 GMT  ·  By

Video game developer Blizzard and Chinese game operator NetEase have confirmed that their recent deal linked to the MMO World of Warcraft also covers the upcoming expansion Mists of Pandaria, which is set to arrive later during 2012.

The deal between the two companies also includes two strategy titles, Warcraft III and Starcraft II, and the Battle.net system that allows players to connect with one another while playing Blizzard video games.

The fact that NetEase is already talking about the Chinese launch of Mists of Pandaria might mean that the expansion will be released soon after the Western fall date and that the government authorities that regulate video games are already familiar with the content included and have approved it.

Mike Morhaime, who is the current chief executive officer and co-founder of Blizzard Entertainment, stated when the announcement was made, “We're grateful for the tremendous enthusiasm Chinese gamers have shown for World of Warcraft over the years, and we're pleased to be renewing our agreement for the game in China.

“We look forward to working with NetEase to deliver all of the new features and content of Mists of Pandaria to Chinese players as soon as possible.”

William Ding, the CEO of NetEase, added, “We are excited to continue our partnership with Blizzard Entertainment after three years of highly effective cooperation on World of Warcraft. Both companies have complementary business strategies and share a similar corporate culture.

“I am confident that with Blizzard Entertainment's expertise in developing world-class games and NetEase's experience in local game operation, we will be able to provide the best gaming experiences for players in China.”

Mists of Pandaria will allow players to choose a new race, the Pandaren, and a new class, the monk, but there is also content for players who are satisfied with their characters, including more quests, a new full continent to explore and a new system of battles involving pets.