Nexon and EA team up for 'FIFA Online 3' in Korea

Confirming a spring rumor, Nexon and EA Sports today announced plans to develop and publish FIFA Online 3 in Korea later this year.

Confirming a spring rumor, Nexon and EA Sports today announced plans to develop and publish EA Sports FIFA Online 3 in Korea later this year.

The game, set for a release in late 2012, is being developed by EA Seoul Studio and published by Nexon, according to an Electronic Arts press release.

In March, Bloomberg reported on rumblings that the two companies were in talks to team up on the distribution of FIFA Online in Asia. The story said the companies were weighing the possibility of using NExon's online servers, developers and micro-transaction expertise to bring the game to South Korea and other parts of Asia.

Neither companies commented on the rumor at the time, but in a joint press release tonight the companies said EA Sports FIFA Online 3 will offer "the most authentic in-game experience ever."

"Players will experience improved gameplay and strategies, enhanced graphics, the latest rosters, and extensive use of official licenses - including close to 15,000 real world players from 30 leagues and 40 national teams," according to the release.

The new online game will also add new techniques and features, improved artificial intelligence, enhanced animation and 5-on-5 multiplayer competition.

The agreement accelerates Nexon's plans to enter the sports game market, according to the release. ]

"The EA Sports FIFA series is the absolute gold standard for soccer games and we are thrilled that the new game will be published through Nexon," Min Seo, CEO of Nexon Korea Corporation, said in a prepared statement. "We think EA Sports FIFA Online 3 will ignite the sports genre in Korea, offering fans a truly authentic gameplay experience. We look forward to providing the latest version of one of the industry's most storied and successful titles to both new and longtime players and ensuring that people who love playing EA Sports FIFA Online today are recognized in the new game."