Gala-Net Names Former Massive Exec As Operations VP

US based publisher Gala-Net has announced the appointment of former Massive Incorporated executive John Young as the company's corporate vice president of operations, as well as the producer of the upcoming free online multiplayer car combat game Upshift StrikeRacer. According to Gala-Net, Young will oversee the localization, culturalization and launch of the Korean developed Upshift StrikeRacer in North America, while also working to expand the company's presence in the online game space. A fifteen year industry veteran, Young most recently worked as the senior director of business development with in-game advertising firm Massive Incorporated, where he oversaw business development in North America and Asia. In addition, Young also ran the company’s product development group. Upshift StrikeRacer is expected to be released in North America this August. Though free to download and play, the game will offer an assortment of vehicles, body kits, accessory kits, weapons, finishes and special items can be bought only with the reputation points earned by while playing. “John Young has the perfect background, expertise and passion for interactive media and online games to bring our next series of free-to-play services to market in North America,” said Satoru Kikugawa, CEO, Gala-Net, Inc. “His deep knowledge of both the Asian and North American interactive entertainment markets is a huge asset to Gala-Net as the company continues to drive the growth of Gala’s global network.”