CBS Interactive announces the launch of GameSpot Asia

GameSpot Asia provides gamers with local and global information on the video game industry

Local version builds on the foundations established by GameSpot.com, the world's leading online resource for video games information

Singapore, 25th November, 2010 - CBS Interactive, the premier online content network for information on business, technology and entertainment, announces the launch today of GameSpot Asia (asia.gamespot.com), a pan-Asian version of the world's leading video game editorial brand, GameSpot.com.

GameSpot Asia will provide video games enthusiasts from South East Asia with a deep, unbiased, interactive and engaging environment 100 per cent focused on games.

Growing from the site's international bases in the US, UK and Australia, GameSpot Asia will give users from across the region automatic access to tens of thousands of PC and video game reviews from expert editors, previews of the hottest upcoming games, game downloads, video streams, guides, breaking news, gaming hints and local community features via GameSpot.com.

Prior to the local launch of the GameSpot Asia brand, GameSpot.com has attracted over 2m Asian readers* to its website, demonstrating that gamers across Asia are no longer waiting for local resources, but tapping into trusted online resources from around the globe for news and developments from the world of video games. GameSpot Asia is now also an opportunity for marketers to reach the right audience of heavy entertainment consumers who like to look smart and share their entertainment opinions.

"This the ideal time for GameSpot to enter the Asia/Pacific market," said Wendy Hogan, Vice President and Managing Director CBS Interactive Asia Pacific. "PWC estimates the interactive games sector in this region to be worth more than US$30bn in 2011, with an expected compound annual growth rate of 16.4%."

Furthermore, according to the report, Asia Pacific is the largest region at approximately 40% of the global spend, and is projected to be the fastest growing region during the next five years, increasing its global lead.**

This environment also offers the opportunity to introduce unique advertising opportunities to marketers in Asia. "CBS Interactive attracts an attractive young male demographic for advertisers to target across its network of content sites including CNET Asia and ZDNet Asia and is at the forefront globally of interactive ad development - we can now offer that same innovation to our clients' locally in Asia," continued Ms Hogan.

GameSpot Asia will be headed by Randolph Ramsay, Site Manager and Editor, GameSpot APAC. Randolph successfully launched GameSpot in Australia in 2006, doubling the size of its local audience since launch and building community to the point where it now currently and consistently ranks as Australia's number one site in video gaming***. Randolph will manage a local editorial team located in Singapore, with freelance input from specialists around the region.

"Gamers are looking to online sources to get the latest information and connect with fellow gamers to talk about new releases, the best deals and cheats through forums and discussion groups. GameSpot Asia will deliver all the essential information Asian gamers are used to from GameSpot.com plus more of the local coverage and opinion they want," said Randolph Ramsay, Editor, GameSpot APAC.

For more information, visit GameSpot Asia - asia.gamespot.com.

- ENDS -

About GameSpot Asia
The GameSpot Network is 100% focused on video games, providing reviews, ratings, and best-in-breed HD trailers that keep our players coming back for more. Exclusive videos, sneak peaks and demos create plenty of addicting eye candy, while insightful reporting from our reputable editorial team highlight industry news and trendsetting events. A pioneer in the gaming space, GameSpot breaks the news gamers are clamoring for and translates trends for the rest of us. GameSpot attracts influential young guys with an insatiable appetite for the hottest games, freshest information and tips to fuel their fun.

About CBS Interactive
CBS Interactive builds media experiences based on the things people love most. As leading destinations for the information and entertainment people crave, we don't just support lifestyles - we help define them. Across brands like GameSpot, CNET Asia, ZDNet Asia and BNET.com, we deliver highly engaging editorial programming that combines original, independent and user-generated content. Our approach attracts people who thrive on being in the know, and who captivate others with their opinions and expertise.

* Source: ComScore MyMetrix, rolling three month average, Sept 2010
** Source: Price WaterhouseCoopers LLP, Wilkofsky Gruen Associates (via PWC Entertainment & Media Outlook 2010-2014)
*** Source: Latest Nielsen Market Intelligence data, Q3 2010

For further information, images or interview opportunities, please contact:
Malti Peplow
Sales and Marketing Director - CBS Interactive
P: +65 6506 6696
E: malti.peplow@cbsinteractive.com