Blizzard raises $2m for tsunami appeal with virtual pet

Blizzard has raised $2 million for the Japanese tsunami relief effort with a World Of Warcraft virtual pet.
The Cenarion Hatchling went on sale for $10 in May, with Blizzard pledging 100 per cent of revenue generated before July 31 to the Red Cross provide assistance to victims of the disaster.
"Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of World of Warcraft players around the world," the company said in a statement. "We've raised a total of more than $1.9 million to support the ongoing earthquake and tsunami relief efforts in Japan."
"The community responded by opening up their hearts and wallets wide. Thanks again for your support and for helping to make an impact on the lives of those affected by these events."
The tsunami that struck Japan earlier this year had a considerable impact on the country's games industry, with Sega, Tecmo Koei, Konami, Sony, Nintendo, Namco Bandai and Square Enix all reporting a sharp decline in share prices in its aftermath.

http://www.gamesindustry.biz/article...th-virtual-pet