|
MACAU and HONG KONG, May 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Asia Pioneer Entertainment Holdings Limited (APE; Stock Code: 8400.HK) has signed a distribution agreement with Germany's CountR GmbH, a global leading provider of automated cash‑handling solutions. The partnership follows the launch earlier this month of BEE MACAU, the city's first playing card factory, and marks APE's expansion from a pure electronic gaming equipment supplier into a full "one‑stop" gaming solutions provider, positioning the company to capture broader opportunities in Asia's fast‑growing entertainment markets.
Transforming Payment Solutions in New Markets
CountR, with 20 years of expertise and more than 10,000 machines deployed across integrated resorts, cruise ships, and gaming floors worldwide, is partnering with APE to introduce its advanced cash redemption kiosks to Asia's growing gaming sector. Known for its innovative technology and integrated systems that connect retail, gaming, and entertainment, CountR simplifies payment processes for operators while enhancing seamless experiences for players.
Under the agreement, APE will distribute CountR's kiosks across Asia. Already proven in global market, these kiosks allow players to quickly redeem credits from tickets, chips, and cash, which is planned for Southeast Asia, giving operators a more efficient and streamlined way to manage cash operations. The partnership was unveiled at the G2E Asia expo in Cotai Arena, Macau, where APE and CountR showcased their integrated solutions to industry leaders.
Ms. Maria Garcia, Executive Director and Sales Director of APE, said: "We are truly honored and excited to be the distributor for CountR across Asia. CountR is widely recognized for its versatile, innovative, and reliable payment solutions in global markets. Through this collaboration and our existing product offerings, we can now provide a broader range of products and services that address most casino operational needs. I am confident that this partnership will support APE in developing new markets across Asia"
Ms. Tamara Sawyer, Regional Sales Manager of CountR, added: "Partnering with APE opens the door to Asia's fast‑growing casino market. Together, we're ready to bring proven innovation to the region and unlock new opportunities for growth."
APE Expands Into One‑Stop Gaming Solutions with Wider Customer Reach
APE's portfolio now evolves into a one‑stop suite of gaming solutions, combining Electronic Gaming Equipment such as slot machines and electronic table games, Table Game Solutions including playing cards (BEE Macau—the city's first playing card factory), dealing shoes, and smart trend boards, and Cash Management Solutions powered by CountR kiosks; together these offerings position APE to serve both large integrated resorts and smaller gaming floors with greater efficiency and flexibility, while opening the door to broader customer reach across Asia.
Mr. Herman Ng, CEO and Executive Director of APE commented: "APE's strategy is shifting from being primarily a supplier of electronic gaming equipment to delivering comprehensive gaming operation solutions. The new model focuses on integration, cost efficiency, and flexibility, allowing APE to serve both large integrated resort casinos and smaller niche casino floors effectively."
About Asia Pioneer Entertainment Holdings Limited (Stock Code: 8400.HK)
Asia Pioneer Entertainment Holdings Limited (APE), founded in 2006 and listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (Stock Code: 8400.HK), is a leading supplier of electronic gaming equipment, including slot machines and electronic table games. Beyond its core business, APE is actively expanding into casino operational solutions for table operations and casino floor solutions serving casino customers in Macau and other gaming jurisdictions across Asia.
Website: apemacau.com
About CountR GmbH
CountR GmbH Founded on November 9, 2003, CountR GmbH is a global leader in the development of advanced payment systems and automated cash-handling solutions. With over 20 years of expertise, we provide versatile, cutting-edge technologies that empower businesses to streamline financial transactions securely and efficiently. From multifunctional terminals to customized software, we serve a wide range of industries, including casinos, retail and entertainment.
Website: https://www.countr.de/en/
MACAU and HONG KONG, May 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Asia Pioneer Entertainment Holdings Limited (APE; Stock Code: 8400.HK) has signed a distribution agreement with Germany's CountR GmbH, a global leading provider of automated cash‑handling solutions. The partnership follows the launch earlier this month of BEE MACAU, the city's first playing card factory, and marks APE's expansion from a pure electronic gaming equipment supplier into a full "one‑stop" gaming solutions provider, positioning the company to capture broader opportunities in Asia's fast‑growing entertainment markets.
Transforming Payment Solutions in New Markets
CountR, with 20 years of expertise and more than 10,000 machines deployed across integrated resorts, cruise ships, and gaming floors worldwide, is partnering with APE to introduce its advanced cash redemption kiosks to Asia's growing gaming sector. Known for its innovative technology and integrated systems that connect retail, gaming, and entertainment, CountR simplifies payment processes for operators while enhancing seamless experiences for players.
Under the agreement, APE will distribute CountR's kiosks across Asia. Already proven in global market, these kiosks allow players to quickly redeem credits from tickets, chips, and cash, which is planned for Southeast Asia, giving operators a more efficient and streamlined way to manage cash operations. The partnership was unveiled at the G2E Asia expo in Cotai Arena, Macau, where APE and CountR showcased their integrated solutions to industry leaders.
Ms. Maria Garcia, Executive Director and Sales Director of APE, said: "We are truly honored and excited to be the distributor for CountR across Asia. CountR is widely recognized for its versatile, innovative, and reliable payment solutions in global markets. Through this collaboration and our existing product offerings, we can now provide a broader range of products and services that address most casino operational needs. I am confident that this partnership will support APE in developing new markets across Asia"
Ms. Tamara Sawyer, Regional Sales Manager of CountR, added: "Partnering with APE opens the door to Asia's fast‑growing casino market. Together, we're ready to bring proven innovation to the region and unlock new opportunities for growth."
APE Expands Into One‑Stop Gaming Solutions with Wider Customer Reach
APE's portfolio now evolves into a one‑stop suite of gaming solutions, combining Electronic Gaming Equipment such as slot machines and electronic table games, Table Game Solutions including playing cards (BEE Macau—the city's first playing card factory), dealing shoes, and smart trend boards, and Cash Management Solutions powered by CountR kiosks; together these offerings position APE to serve both large integrated resorts and smaller gaming floors with greater efficiency and flexibility, while opening the door to broader customer reach across Asia.
Mr. Herman Ng, CEO and Executive Director of APE commented: "APE's strategy is shifting from being primarily a supplier of electronic gaming equipment to delivering comprehensive gaming operation solutions. The new model focuses on integration, cost efficiency, and flexibility, allowing APE to serve both large integrated resort casinos and smaller niche casino floors effectively."
About Asia Pioneer Entertainment Holdings Limited (Stock Code: 8400.HK)
Asia Pioneer Entertainment Holdings Limited (APE), founded in 2006 and listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (Stock Code: 8400.HK), is a leading supplier of electronic gaming equipment, including slot machines and electronic table games. Beyond its core business, APE is actively expanding into casino operational solutions for table operations and casino floor solutions serving casino customers in Macau and other gaming jurisdictions across Asia.
Website: apemacau.com
About CountR GmbH
CountR GmbH Founded on November 9, 2003, CountR GmbH is a global leader in the development of advanced payment systems and automated cash-handling solutions. With over 20 years of expertise, we provide versatile, cutting-edge technologies that empower businesses to streamline financial transactions securely and efficiently. From multifunctional terminals to customized software, we serve a wide range of industries, including casinos, retail and entertainment.
Website: https://www.countr.de/en/
** This press release is distributed by PR Newswire through automated distribution system, for which the client assumes full responsibility. **
Asia Pioneer Entertainment expands to One‑Stop Gaming Services with CountR Agreement
|
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, May 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- GRAVITY GAME UNITE SDN. BHD. is pleased to announce that the first Open Beta Test (OBT) for Ragnarok Zero: Global will officially begin on May 20, 2026.
Ragnarok Zero: Global is the first Global PC service for the Ragnarok franchise, bringing players across Southeast Asia, Europe and Oceania into a unified global service environment where adventurers can experience the nostalgic world of Midgard together for the very first time.
Officially licensed by Gravity Co., Ltd., Ragnarok Zero: Global builds upon the original Ragnarok Online experience with carefully developed improvements that modernize gameplay while preserving the spirit of the classic MMORPG.
The game adopts a subscription-based service model aimed at minimizing pay-to-win elements and reducing excessive monetization pressure, allowing players to enjoy a fairer and more immersive MMORPG experience. The upcoming OBT will be available free of charge for all players.
The OBT marks the first opportunity for all players worldwide to experience the world of Midgard in Ragnarok Zero: Global ahead of the official launch.
"Ragnarok Zero: Global represents our effort to offer a new take on the original Ragnarok experience while improving it for today's players," said Harry Choi, President of Gravity Game Unite.
OBT Schedule
The OBT will run from 01:00 AM, May 20th, 2026 (UTC+0) until 23:59 PM, May 27th, 2026 (UTC+0).
OBT Target Regions
The OBT will target players across Southeast Asia, Europe and Oceania.
OBT Platforms & Participation Method
The OBT is available exclusively on the PC platform.
Players must create a GNJOY account through the official website
The game client download will become available through the official OBT website starting from May 18th, 2026
Players can download the OBT client through the official OBT site: https://roz.mygnjoy.com/en/event/obt
Experience the Core Features of Ragnarok Zero
Ragnarok Zero: Global introduces several gameplay improvements and exclusive systems designed specifically for ROZ while preserving the nostalgic atmosphere of the original Ragnarok Online.
Key features available during OBT include:
- Reworked UI/UX based on the original RO1 interface for easier navigation and control
- Expanded camera and field of view for improved gameplay visibility
- Auto-combat support for smoother progression
- Simplified regional travel routes, reducing unnecessary movement complexity
- Various Jobs & Classes available to play
Unlike many modern MMORPG adaptations, Ragnarok Zero: Global focuses on delivering the closest experience to the original Ragnarok Online while enhancing convenience and gameplay flow for modern players.
OBT Commemorative Events
To celebrate the launch of OBT, multiple in-game and community events will be available throughout the testing period, allowing players to earn exclusive rewards and commemorative prizes.
Players can participate in the following events:
- Daily Attendance Event
- Level Achievement Event
- Bug Report Event
- OBT Screenshot Event
- OBT Survey Event
- OBT Exclusive Title Event
- OBT Thank You Event
- Subscription Event
In addition, more upcoming community activities and engagement campaigns are planned to further connect the global Ragnarok community. Additional details will be revealed through the official channels at a later date.
Stay Connected
Players can follow the official Ragnarok Zero: Global channels for the latest news and updates.
Join OBT: https://roz.mygnjoy.com/en/event/obt
Pre-Register: https://roz.mygnjoy.com/event/prereservation?media=pr2
Discord: https://discord.gg/bFg77WjcHT
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ragnarokzeroglobal/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ragnarokzeroglobal/
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@RagnarokZeroGlobal
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ragnarokzeroglobal
About Gravity Game Unite SDN. BHD.
Gravity Game Unite SDN. BHD. (GGU) is a global publishing and service subsidiary of Gravity Co., Ltd., headquartered in Malaysia. The company focuses on delivering Ragnarok titles and operating global game services for players worldwide through publishing, operations, and community engagement.
About Gravity Co., Ltd.
Founded in April 2000 and listed on the Nasdaq Global Market (GRVY), Gravity Co., Ltd. is a global game company headquartered in Korea. Best known for its flagship MMORPG Ragnarok Online, Gravity continues to expand its portfolio with online and mobile games enjoyed by millions of players worldwide.
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, May 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- GRAVITY GAME UNITE SDN. BHD. is pleased to announce that the first Open Beta Test (OBT) for Ragnarok Zero: Global will officially begin on May 20, 2026.
Ragnarok Zero: Global is the first Global PC service for the Ragnarok franchise, bringing players across Southeast Asia, Europe and Oceania into a unified global service environment where adventurers can experience the nostalgic world of Midgard together for the very first time.
Officially licensed by Gravity Co., Ltd., Ragnarok Zero: Global builds upon the original Ragnarok Online experience with carefully developed improvements that modernize gameplay while preserving the spirit of the classic MMORPG.
The game adopts a subscription-based service model aimed at minimizing pay-to-win elements and reducing excessive monetization pressure, allowing players to enjoy a fairer and more immersive MMORPG experience. The upcoming OBT will be available free of charge for all players.
The OBT marks the first opportunity for all players worldwide to experience the world of Midgard in Ragnarok Zero: Global ahead of the official launch.
"Ragnarok Zero: Global represents our effort to offer a new take on the original Ragnarok experience while improving it for today's players," said Harry Choi, President of Gravity Game Unite.
OBT Schedule
The OBT will run from 01:00 AM, May 20th, 2026 (UTC+0) until 23:59 PM, May 27th, 2026 (UTC+0).
OBT Target Regions
The OBT will target players across Southeast Asia, Europe and Oceania.
OBT Platforms & Participation Method
The OBT is available exclusively on the PC platform.
Players must create a GNJOY account through the official website
The game client download will become available through the official OBT website starting from May 18th, 2026
Players can download the OBT client through the official OBT site: https://roz.mygnjoy.com/en/event/obt
Experience the Core Features of Ragnarok Zero
Ragnarok Zero: Global introduces several gameplay improvements and exclusive systems designed specifically for ROZ while preserving the nostalgic atmosphere of the original Ragnarok Online.
Key features available during OBT include:
- Reworked UI/UX based on the original RO1 interface for easier navigation and control
- Expanded camera and field of view for improved gameplay visibility
- Auto-combat support for smoother progression
- Simplified regional travel routes, reducing unnecessary movement complexity
- Various Jobs & Classes available to play
Unlike many modern MMORPG adaptations, Ragnarok Zero: Global focuses on delivering the closest experience to the original Ragnarok Online while enhancing convenience and gameplay flow for modern players.
OBT Commemorative Events
To celebrate the launch of OBT, multiple in-game and community events will be available throughout the testing period, allowing players to earn exclusive rewards and commemorative prizes.
Players can participate in the following events:
- Daily Attendance Event
- Level Achievement Event
- Bug Report Event
- OBT Screenshot Event
- OBT Survey Event
- OBT Exclusive Title Event
- OBT Thank You Event
- Subscription Event
In addition, more upcoming community activities and engagement campaigns are planned to further connect the global Ragnarok community. Additional details will be revealed through the official channels at a later date.
Stay Connected
Players can follow the official Ragnarok Zero: Global channels for the latest news and updates.
Join OBT: https://roz.mygnjoy.com/en/event/obt
Pre-Register: https://roz.mygnjoy.com/event/prereservation?media=pr2
Discord: https://discord.gg/bFg77WjcHT
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ragnarokzeroglobal/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ragnarokzeroglobal/
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@RagnarokZeroGlobal
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ragnarokzeroglobal
About Gravity Game Unite SDN. BHD.
Gravity Game Unite SDN. BHD. (GGU) is a global publishing and service subsidiary of Gravity Co., Ltd., headquartered in Malaysia. The company focuses on delivering Ragnarok titles and operating global game services for players worldwide through publishing, operations, and community engagement.
About Gravity Co., Ltd.
Founded in April 2000 and listed on the Nasdaq Global Market (GRVY), Gravity Co., Ltd. is a global game company headquartered in Korea. Best known for its flagship MMORPG Ragnarok Online, Gravity continues to expand its portfolio with online and mobile games enjoyed by millions of players worldwide.
** This press release is distributed by PR Newswire through automated distribution system, for which the client assumes full responsibility. **
Ragnarok Zero: Global Launches First Open Beta Test for the First Global Ragnarok PC Server
Ragnarok Zero: Global Launches First Open Beta Test for the First Global Ragnarok PC Server