WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010 is the wrestling video game from THQ released in October, which features characters based on WWE’s roster of fighters. Players can also create their own wrestler to be used in the game. Now THQ and the World Wrestling Entertainment have announced that they have reached an eight-year agreement wherein THQ will have the exclusive rights to develop and publish video games based on WWE’s content effective as off January 1, 2010.
“This agreement ensures that WWE games will continue to be an important cornerstone of THQ’s annual release schedule for the long term,” stated Brian Farrell, THQ President and Chief Executive Officer. “We look forward to working directly with WWE to expand their brand in the video game space through continued game play innovation and increased online delivery of WWE content.”
“This year’s highly rated WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010 video game demonstrates the innovation and creativity that THQ brings to WWE,” commented Vince McMahon, WWE Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “This new licensing agreement will ensure that we continue our tremendous success in the video game industry in the years to come.”
With the agreement, WWE has granted THQ the worldwide rights to publish interactive games based on WWE properties, across all the major platforms and distribution channels.
“As one of the most successful video game brands, WWE is excited to work directly with THQ to translate WWE’s colorful characters and ever-changing content into exciting and fresh video games for our fans,” remarked Donna Goldsmith, WWE Chief Operating Officer.
THQ has reported the net sales of WWE video games of over 1.4 billion US dollars, through September 30, 2009.