Ismole CEO Reveals Development Strategy
Sohu IT, 4/09/10
Chen Shuyi, CEO of Beijing-based social game developer Ismole, recently said that the company's strategy is to develop its influence within the Chinese Mainland, but develop its revenue from abroad. To develop domestic influence, Chen elaborated, is mainly a matter of expanding the number of platforms to access its games and create brand recognition among users. In addition to popular social networking sites such as Renren, 51.com, and Sohu's (Nasdaq: SOHU) Bai Shehui, Ismole will also tap platforms including Netease's (Nasdaq: NTES) Menghuan Rensheng ("Dream Life"), Shanda Interactive's (Nasdaq: SNDA) online literature site Qidian, and Sina's (Nasdaq: SINA) microblogging service. The company is reportedly seeking to co-operate its games with Kaixin001, on Tencent's (0700.HK) properties, and Sina's microblogging service.
To develop revenue from abroad, Chen said, the company would rely on its influence and operating experience in China to springboard into overseas markets where it will make its revenue. Chen said that Ismole's "Happy Kitchen" (Xingfu Chufang) has already connected to platforms abroad including Japan's Mixi and DeNA.
Chen revealed that Ismole currently employs over 100 staff, and that the company is now breaking even from its revenue in China; any revenue from abroad is pure profit. Ismole has exceeded monthly domestic revenues of RMB 1 mln, and the company's revenue from abroad is soon set to reach USD 1 mln per month.
Chen said the company has produced 31 games, and will issue at least another 5 new products this year.
Editor's Note: Earlier industry reports stated that Ismole had received funding in the single-digit millions of USD. These reports were later retracted.
Keywords: Ismole online gaming Chen Shuyi HR Happy Kitchen Internet funding profit revenue strategy social game SNS