Ubisoft has announced that they have gotten into an agreement with Twentieth Century Fox to develop and publish a video game based on Avatar. The movie has been written and directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker James Cameron.
The movie features Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, and Sigourney Weaver. Avatar is based on the story of an ex-Marine who finds himself shoved into hostilities on an alien planet filled with exotic life forms. So now, as an Avatar, a human mind in an alien body, he finds himself torn between two worlds, in a frantic fight for his own survival and that of the indigenous people.
James Cameron said, “For the movie ‘Avatar’ we are creating a world rich in character, detail, conflict and cultural depth. It has the raw material for a game that the more demanding gamers of today will want to get their hands on – one that is rich in visuals and ideas, and challenging in play. I told the Ubisoft team I wanted them to be free to do their very best work, and not think of this as a movie-based game. They responded with a fully realized presentation which captured the soul of the world and the characters, while promising to be a knockout game on its own terms. Their passion inspired my confidence that they are going to do something transcendental.”
Yves Guillemot, CEO, Ubisoft says, “Ubisoft is excited to partner with 20th Century Fox and James Cameron on this important project. ‘Avatar’s’ rich scenario, onscreen action and special effects will provide a wealth of inspiration to create a unique interactive experience. True to their reputation, Ubisoft’s creative teams are looking forward to recreating Cameron’s high definition 3D environment in a compelling game for film and game fans.”
Elie Dekel, Executive VP, Fox Licensing & Merchandising said, “James Cameron’s “Avatar” will re-define the movie-going experience forever. Cameron’s vision and innovative approach to film-making demand that we line up this breakthrough project with the most talented and creative partners in the world. As we embark on the incredible journey that is “Avatar,” we are thrilled to be collaborating with Ubisoft on the development of the video game. After an extensive review, it became clear the talented Ubisoft team is uniquely able to bring Cameron’s vision into the interactive realm.”
The Avatar video game is expected to release along with the movie’s planned opening in May 2009. However, Ubisoft has not released any more details regarding the gameplay, platforms or the pricing of the game. I hope it is a shooter game!