Two original games will be released for GameCube and GBA, then expanded into multimedia franchises by Nickelodeon. Licensing in reverse!
THQ and Nickelodeon are already putting their newly strengthened relationship to work with a "Videogame First" program. With Nickelodeon's input, THQ will publish original games on next-gen systems, with the purpose of creating an audience for those properties that Nickelodeon can later utilize by creating TV series and movies based on the games.
The first two titles announced under this program are Tak and the Power of JuJu for release on PS2, GameCube, and GBA in 2003, and InterStellar P.I.G. (based on a William Sleator novel) for release on undetermined systems, also in 2003. Here's the full press release:
IN ORIGINAL VIDEOGAME PUBLISHING AGREEMENT
TAK AND THE POWER OF JUJU SCHEDULED
FOR PLAYSTATION 2 AND GAMECUBE RELEASE IN 2003
Interstellar P.I.G. Also Identified as “Videogame First” Property
CALABASAS HILLS, CA - February 13, 2002, - THQ Inc. (NASDAQ NMS: THQI) and Nickelodeon today announced the first two properties scheduled for release under their previously announced relationship dedicated to creating, developing and publishing original video game content with multi-media franchise potential through Nickelodeon’s television, movie, on-line, magazine and consumer product network.
Original character-based action-adventure Tak and The Power of JuJu (working title), created and developed by game developer Avalanche, is scheduled for release on PlayStation 2 and GameCube in 2003.
THQ and Nickelodeon also announced that Interstellar P.I.G. (working title), based on Nickelodeon’s adaptation of William Sleator’s 1995 novel of the same name, is also scheduled for release in 2003.
“We are constantly looking for new ways to deliver great content to the expanding, all-ages gaming audience,” stated Jeff Lapin, Vice Chairman and COO, THQ. “This new relationship with Nickelodeon is unrivaled among all entertainment content creators. It enables us to combine the two companies’ kids entertainment expertise in creating truly multi-media properties.”
“Tak and Interstellar P.I.G. are creatively unique properties which follow in the Nickelodeon tradition of compelling stories, adventure and humor that appeal to kids of all ages” said Albie Hecht, Nickelodeon’s President of Film and TV Entertainment. “THQ’s development expertise combined with Nickelodeon’s creative sensibilities will ensure that we deliver top-quality gameplay on the PlayStation 2 and GameCube.”
Tak and The Power of JuJu is a 3D gaming adventure that takes place in an ancient, tribal world where magic (juju) actually works. The game consists of exploration, puzzle solving, and arcade-style skill mastery. The player controls the main character, Tak, as he tries to save his village from an evil sorcerer.
Interstellar P.I.G. blends strategy, adventure and action game play into a truly addictive game of epic proportions. Set across multiple distinct, beautifully rendered 3D worlds, players must use their wits and battle skills to capture the P.I.G. chip and survive encounters with exotic and determined alien opponents.
Tak and The Power of JuJu is also scheduled for release for Game Boy Advance in 2003. More information on THQ and Nickelodeon’s original game projects will be released at the Electronics Entertainment Expo (E3) in May.
