GCL Plans to Strengthen Gaming Portfolio with Potential 20% Stake Acquisition in LEAP for Exclusive Global Publishing Rights for Upcoming Game “Realm of Ink”
GCL Global Holdings (NASDAQ: GCL) has announced a strategic partnership with LEAP Studio , involving a potential 20% equity investment in LEAP and exclusive global publishing rights for LEAP's upcoming game 'Realm of Ink'.
The partnership will be executed through GCL's publishing subsidiary, 4Divinity. Realm of Ink is an action-roguelite adventure game featuring Chinese ink art-inspired visuals, scheduled for release in November 2025. The game follows the character Red, a swordswoman navigating through dynamic levels with ink-based abilities and customization options.
The collaboration aims to leverage GCL's extensive network and expertise to ensure successful global distribution. Sebastian Toke, GCL's Group CEO, emphasized the game's unique appeal, while LEAP's CEO NingKun Dai highlighted the positive early feedback from players and critics.
GCL Global Holdings (NASDAQ: GCL) ha annunciato una partnership strategica con LEAP Studio, che prevede un potenziale investimento azionario del 20% in LEAP e diritti di pubblicazione globali esclusivi per il prossimo gioco di LEAP 'Realm of Ink'.
La partnership sarà realizzata attraverso la sussidiaria di pubblicazione di GCL, 4Divinity. Realm of Ink è un gioco d'azione roguelite che presenta visivi ispirati all'arte dell'inchiostro cinese, previsto per il rilascio nel novembre 2025. Il gioco segue il personaggio di Red, una spadaccina che si muove attraverso livelli dinamici con abilità e opzioni di personalizzazione basate sull'inchiostro.
La collaborazione mira a sfruttare la vasta rete e l'esperienza di GCL per garantire una distribuzione globale di successo. Sebastian Toke, CEO del Gruppo GCL, ha sottolineato l'attrattiva unica del gioco, mentre il CEO di LEAP, NingKun Dai, ha evidenziato il feedback positivo ricevuto da giocatori e critici.
GCL Global Holdings (NASDAQ: GCL) ha anunciado una asociación estratégica con LEAP Studio, que implica una posible inversión del 20% en LEAP y derechos de publicación globales exclusivos para el próximo juego de LEAP 'Realm of Ink'.
La asociación se llevará a cabo a través de la subsidiaria de publicación de GCL, 4Divinity. Realm of Ink es un juego de aventura roguelite de acción que presenta visuales inspirados en el arte del tinta china, programado para su lanzamiento en noviembre de 2025. El juego sigue al personaje de Red, una espadachina que navega a través de niveles dinámicos con habilidades y opciones de personalización basadas en tinta.
La colaboración tiene como objetivo aprovechar la amplia red y experiencia de GCL para asegurar una distribución global exitosa. Sebastian Toke, CEO del Grupo GCL, enfatizó el atractivo único del juego, mientras que NingKun Dai, CEO de LEAP, destacó la retroalimentación positiva de jugadores y críticos.
GCL 글로벌 홀딩스 (NASDAQ: GCL)는 LEAP 스튜디오와의 전략적 파트너십을 발표했으며, 이는 LEAP에 대한 20%의 지분 투자와 LEAP의 차기 게임 'Realm of Ink'에 대한 독점 글로벌 퍼블리싱 권리를 포함합니다.
이 파트너십은 GCL의 퍼블리싱 자회사인 4Divinity를 통해 실행될 것입니다. Realm of Ink는 중국 잉크 예술에 영감을 받은 비주얼을 특징으로 하는 액션 로그라이트 어드벤처 게임으로, 2025년 11월에 출시될 예정입니다. 이 게임은 잉크 기반의 능력과 커스터마이징 옵션을 가진 검객 레드라는 캐릭터를 따라 진행됩니다.
이 협업은 GCL의 방대한 네트워크와 전문성을 활용하여 성공적인 글로벌 배급을 보장하는 것을 목표로 합니다. GCL의 그룹 CEO인 세바스찬 토케는 게임의 독특한 매력을 강조했으며, LEAP의 CEO인 닝쿤 다이는 플레이어와 비평가로부터 받은 긍정적인 초기 피드백을 강조했습니다.
GCL Global Holdings (NASDAQ: GCL) a annoncé un partenariat stratégique avec LEAP Studio, impliquant un potentiel investissement en actions de 20% dans LEAP et des droits de publication mondiaux exclusifs pour le prochain jeu de LEAP 'Realm of Ink'.
Le partenariat sera exécuté par la filiale de publication de GCL, 4Divinity. Realm of Ink est un jeu d'aventure roguelite d'action présentant des visuels inspirés de l'art de l'encre chinois, prévu pour une sortie en novembre 2025. Le jeu suit le personnage de Red, une épéiste naviguant à travers des niveaux dynamiques avec des capacités et des options de personnalisation basées sur l'encre.
La collaboration vise à tirer parti du vaste réseau et de l'expertise de GCL pour garantir une distribution mondiale réussie. Sebastian Toke, PDG du Groupe GCL, a souligné l'attrait unique du jeu, tandis que le PDG de LEAP, NingKun Dai, a mis en lumière les retours positifs précoces des joueurs et des critiques.
GCL Global Holdings (NASDAQ: GCL) hat eine strategische Partnerschaft mit LEAP Studio angekündigt, die eine potenzielle 20%ige Beteiligung an LEAP und exklusive globale Veröffentlichungsrechte für LEAPs bevorstehenden Titel 'Realm of Ink' umfasst.
Die Partnerschaft wird über die Publishing-Tochtergesellschaft von GCL, 4Divinity, umgesetzt. Realm of Ink ist ein Action-Roguelite-Abenteuerspiel mit von chinesischer Tinte inspirierter Grafik, das für die Veröffentlichung im November 2025 geplant ist. Das Spiel folgt der Figur Red, einer Schwertkämpferin, die durch dynamische Levels mit tintenbasierten Fähigkeiten und Anpassungsoptionen navigiert.
Die Zusammenarbeit zielt darauf ab, das umfangreiche Netzwerk und die Expertise von GCL zu nutzen, um eine erfolgreiche globale Distribution sicherzustellen. Sebastian Toke, CEO der GCL-Gruppe, betonte die einzigartige Anziehungskraft des Spiels, während NingKun Dai, CEO von LEAP, das positive frühe Feedback von Spielern und Kritikern hervorhob.
- Strategic 20% equity investment in game developer LEAP
- Exclusive global publishing rights for new game title
- Expansion of gaming portfolio with unique IP
- Early positive feedback from players and critics
- Investment terms and final agreement still under negotiation
- Return on investment dependent on unproven new game title
- Game launch delayed until late 2025
Insights
This term sheet represents a strategic expansion of GCL's gaming portfolio through a dual approach: equity investment and publishing rights acquisition. The potential 20% stake in LEAP Studio establishes a meaningful partnership while limiting financial exposure compared to a full acquisition. The exclusive global publishing rights for "Realm of Ink" through GCL's 4Divinity subsidiary creates a new revenue opportunity in the growing action-roguelite genre.
The November 2025 release timeframe provides GCL with approximately 8 months to build marketing momentum. This deal aligns with industry trends of larger publishers securing unique IPs with cultural differentiation—in this case, traditional Chinese ink art aesthetics which may appeal particularly to Asian markets while offering Western audiences distinctive visual elements.
While the financial terms remain undisclosed, this deal structure—minority equity stake plus publishing rights—follows an increasingly common industry model that balances risk mitigation with upside potential. The agreement importantly specifies a "definitive agreement" is still pending, indicating this remains a preliminary arrangement subject to further negotiation and potential adjustment.
GCL's strategic approach here follows the "invest-and-publish" model that offers several business advantages over traditional publishing-only or acquisition-only strategies. By securing both equity participation (20%) and exclusive distribution rights, GCL positions itself to benefit from multiple value streams: direct game revenue through publishing and longer-term studio value appreciation.
The structure effectively creates aligned incentives—LEAP maintains creative independence while gaining publishing expertise and distribution infrastructure; GCL secures exclusive content while gaining partial ownership in the creator. The timing is strategic, with the term sheet announced well ahead of the November 2025 launch window, allowing sufficient pre-marketing runway.
It's worth contextualizing that this represents just one component of GCL's broader content strategy. The Chinese cultural elements in "Realm of Ink" potentially complement GCL's existing portfolio while addressing growing market interest in culturally-distinct gaming experiences. The arrangement also provides GCL optionality—successful collaboration could lead to increased equity stake, additional title publishing rights, or maintaining a productive arm's-length partnership.
SINGAPORE, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- GCL Global Holdings Ltd (NASDAQ: GCL) (“GCL” or the “Company”), a leading provider of games and entertainment, today announced that it has entered into a term sheet with LEAP Studio Limited, a game studio in Hong Kong and its affiliates (“LEAP”). The term sheet outlines certain key terms of a proposed partnership among the parties and their affiliated entities, including GCL’s potential
This partnership marks a new milestone in GCL’s mission to deliver unique, high-quality gaming experiences to a worldwide audience. Under the term sheet, LEAP intends to appoint 4Divinity, GCL’s publishing subsidiary, as the exclusive global publisher for Realm of Ink (original Chinese title: 墨境). Both companies are committed to finalizing a definitive agreement that will ensure a successful launch and sustained growth for this exciting new IP.
A Mesmerizing Journey into the World of Ink and Battle
Set in a visually breathtaking world inspired by traditional Chinese ink art, Realm of Ink immerses players in a dynamic action-roguelite adventure. Players step into the role of Red, a fierce and skilled swordswoman, navigating ever-changing levels shaped by the enigmatic Spirit of the Book. With fluid combat mechanics, powerful ink-based abilities, and deep customization options, Realm of Ink blends fast-paced action with rich storytelling, bringing a fresh and captivating experience to the genre.
The game’s unique hand-painted art style breathes life into a universe that shifts and evolves, offering players a mesmerizing blend of beauty and danger. From intense boss battles to strategic ink-powered attacks, Realm of Ink pushes the boundaries of creativity and gameplay depth, making it one of the most anticipated indie action titles of the year.
A Powerful Collaboration for a Global Gaming Sensation
“Our partnership with Leap Studio to publish 'Realm of Ink' exemplifies the type of unique, broadly appealing titles we are bringing to our gaming portfolio, with its unique blend of action-packed gameplay and stunning Chinese ink wash visuals,” said Sebastian Toke, GCL’s Group CEO. “We are excited about its potential to captivate a broad audience with its rich narrative and immersive environments. The innovative spirit and creative talent at Leap Studio align perfectly with our vision for delivering exceptional gaming experiences. We are thrilled to collaborate with their team and look forward to the long-term success and growth that this partnership will bring to both sides.”
“Realm of Ink has already generated significant early buzz and positive feedback from both players and critics,” said NingKun Dai, Founder and CEO of LEAP. “We are excited to partner with GCL, as they will utilize their extensive network, expertise, and visionary approach to launch our game with a broad audience of passionate gamers. We believe this title has the power to captivate audiences globally and leave a lasting impression on the gaming community.”
Coming Soon: A New Adventure Awaits
Realm of Ink is set to launch in November 2025, promising players an unforgettable journey through its ink-crafted world. Stay tuned for more updates, including gameplay reveals and exclusive previews, as the release date approaches.
About GCL Global Holdings Ltd
GCL Global Holdings Ltd. unites people through immersive games and entertainment experiences, enabling creators to deliver engaging content and fun gameplay experiences to gaming communities worldwide with a strategic focus on the rapidly expanding Asian gaming market.
Drawing on a deep understanding of gaming trends and market dynamics, GCL Group leverages its diverse portfolio of digital and physical content to bridge cultures and audiences by introducing Asian-developed IP to a global audience across consoles, PCs, and streaming platforms.
Learn more at http://www.gclglobalholdings.com.
About 4Divinity
4Divinity is a digital and retail games publishing company and a wholly-owned subsidiary of GCL, focused on bringing exciting game content from around the world to Asia and introducing Asian content to a global market. Along with its sister company, Epicsoft Asia, 4Divinity is partnering with publishers and development studios to introduce brand-new IP to the region.
About LEAP Studio
Leap Studio, a Hong Kong-based game developer, is dedicated to creating innovative PC and console games. With research and development hubs in Beijing, Xi’an, and Hefei, the company thrives on youthful passion—over
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release includes “forward-looking statements” made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and may be identified by the use of words such as “estimate,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “intend,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “seek,” “target” or other similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. These forward-looking statements may also include, but are not limited to, statements regarding projections, estimates and forecasts of revenue and other financial and performance metrics, projections of market opportunity and expectations, the estimated implied enterprise value of the Company, GCL’s ability to scale and grow its business, the advantages and expected growth of the Company, and the Company’s ability to source and retain talent. These statements are based on various assumptions, whether or not identified in this press release, and on the current expectations of GCL’s management and are not predictions of actual performance.
These statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Although GCL believes that it has a reasonable basis for each forward-looking statement contained in this press release, GCL cautions you that these statements are based on a combination of facts and factors currently known and projections of the future, which are inherently uncertain. In addition, there are risks and uncertainties described in the proxy statement/prospectus included in the Registration Statement relating to the recent business combination, filed by the Company with the SEC on December 31, 2024 and other documents which will be filed by the Company from time to time with the SEC. These filings may identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. GCL cannot assure you that the forward-looking statements in this press release will prove to be accurate. There may be additional risks that GCL presently knows or that GCL currently believes are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In light of the significant uncertainties in these forward-looking statements, nothing in this press release should be regarded as a representation by any person that the forward-looking statements set forth herein will be achieved or that any of the contemplated results of such forward-looking statements will be achieved. The forward-looking statements in this press release represent the views of GCL as of the date of this press release. Subsequent events and developments may cause those views to change. However, while GCL may update these forward-looking statements in the future, there is no current intention to do so, except to the extent required by applicable law. You should, therefore, not rely on these forward-looking statements as representing the views of GCL as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release. Except as may be required by law, GCL does not undertake any duty to update these forward-looking statements.
GCL Investor Relations:
Crocker Coulson
crocker.coulson@aummedia.org
(646) 652-7185
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6477318a-11c0-4416-846e-de0c5c2b3c14
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