GCL's 'Realm of Ink' Receives Prestigious Certificate of Merit in Hong Kong Game Enhancement and Development Scheme

GCL Global Holdings Ltd's game "Realm of Ink" 《墨境》 has received a Certificate of Merit in the 4th Hong Kong Game Enhancement and Development Scheme. The game, developed by LEAP Studio, is a visually stunning and immersive roguelike action game set to launch in November 2025 on Steam. The recognition comes with a subsidy of up to HKD 550,000 and expert guidance from industry professionals. GCL is committed to supporting the game's global success.

Singapore, April 02, 2025 — GCL Global Holdings Ltd (NASDAQ: GCL) has announced that one of its publishing portfolio games, "Realm of Ink" 《墨境》, developed by LEAP Studio, has earned a Certificate of Merit in the 4th Hong Kong Game Enhancement and Development Scheme (GEPS). This recognition places "Realm of Ink" among the most outstanding games of the year, commended for its exceptional creativity, design, and innovation.

The GEPS Certificate of Merit, awarded by the Hong Kong Digital Entertainment Association (HKDEA), is designed to support local game developers in enhancing their games and promoting them globally. LEAP Studio, one of the developers selected for the 2024 GEPS subsidy, is entitled to receive up to HKD 550,000 (approximately SGD 94,000 or USD $70,000) and expert guidance from industry professionals. The game, set to launch on Steam in November 2025, is a visually stunning and immersive 2.5D roguelike action game with an innovative ink-inspired art style and mechanics.

GCL's Group CEO, Sebastian Toke, expressed pride in the recognition, stating, "We are incredibly proud to see 'Realm of Ink' receive the recognition it deserves through the GEPS Certificate of Merit. This milestone is a testament to the creativity and dedication of LEAP Studio and our entire team." LEAP Studio's Founder and CEO, Ningkun Dai, echoed this sentiment, expressing gratitude to the HKDEA and highlighting the strategic partnership with GCL as a key factor in the game's success.

The partnership between GCL and LEAP Studio involves a potential 20% equity investment in LEAP and exclusive global publishing rights for "Realm of Ink". This strategic expansion of GCL's gaming portfolio aligns with industry trends of larger publishers securing unique IPs with cultural differentiation. The game's unique appeal, as highlighted by Toke and Dai, is expected to attract both Asian and Western audiences, offering a distinctive visual experience.

The subsidy and expert guidance provided by the GEPS recognition will significantly aid LEAP Studio in the game's development and global promotion. GCL's extensive network and expertise in the gaming industry will further support "Realm of Ink" in its journey to capture the hearts of players worldwide.