Pearl Abyss 1Q Operating Profit 46.2 Billion KRW... Up 154.5% YoY

[Asia Economy Reporter Buaeri] Pearl Abyss announced on the 13th that it achieved sales of 133.2 billion KRW and an operating profit of 46.2 billion KRW in the first quarter. Compared to the same period last year, sales increased by 0.4% and operating profit increased by 154.5%.

Pearl Abyss explained, "We improved profitability by achieving solid global performance of 'Black Desert' and global growth of 'Black Desert Mobile' and 'Black Desert Console.'

The proportion of overseas sales in the first quarter reached 76%. Sales of Black Desert increased in Korea, North America, and Europe. Black Desert Mobile received great responses from content updates and local events held to celebrate the 2nd anniversary of the Korean service and the 1st anniversary of the Japanese service. The global release sales from December last year were reflected in the first quarter, contributing to sales expansion, the company explained.

'Black Desert Console' launched a new game service called cross-play in March, allowing Xbox One and PlayStation 4 users to enjoy Black Desert together regardless of platform. New and returning users increased by 250% and 350% respectively, driving sales growth.

Jo Seok-woo, Pearl Abyss Chief Financial Officer (CFO), said, "Pearl Abyss continued steady growth through the global expansion of Black Desert's intellectual property (IP) and platform diversification. We will continue to secure profitability through user-friendly operations and continuous technology development, and thoroughly prepare for the successful launch of Shadow Arena and EVE Echoes in 2020."

Pearl Abyss plans to expand its global strategy by conducting a pre-release of the action battle royale 'Shadow Arena' on the 21st.