Codemasters selected as service provider for Dungeons and Dragons Online

Furthering the company's move into the MMO arena, British publisher Codemasters has announced a partnership with Turbine Inc to become the online service provider for Dungeons and Dragons Online: Stormreach.

The company recently announced the establishment of a dedicated Massively Multiplayer Online division, called Codemasters Online Gaming. Under the leadership of former PC group brand manager David Solari, the new division will focus on a casual games portal for mass-market appeal, in addition to securing exclusive partnerships for MMO titles.

Codemasters will be responsible for hosting, community management, technical support and billing for the Hasbro licensed title when it reaches market in Europe next year. The game received a positive reception at this year's E3, and is tipped as one of the most anticipated MMO titles of 2006.

Commenting on the partnership, Turbine's president and CEO Jeffrey Anderson said: "Codemastersâ investment in online gaming makes them the right partner for Dungeons & Dragons Online: Stormreach in Europe. We are convinced that Codemasters will provide the best exposure and customer support for this highly anticipated title."

Rod Cousens, CEO of Codemasters added: "Turbine has an exceptional heritage in the MMO space and we are delighted to be its online operational partner for the European launch.

"With outstanding experience in online community management, Codemasters is committed to expanding its activities in the MMO market and this agreement is testament to the expertise within our online gaming division."

Utilising the substantial funding secured through Benchmark Capital Europe recently, Codemasters has also secured the publishing rights to MMORPG Rising Force in North America and Europe. The company continues to strengthen its MMO licensing, service provision and publishing deals in the MMO market, with further titles expected to be revealed in the coming months.