Because no good franchise (make that potentially good franchise) can be over-milked.

Pocket Books just announced that they have acquired the world rights to publish the novelization of Assassin's Creed. The first novel in the expected trilogy will be published in October. All three novels will be written by New York Times bestselling author Steven Barnes and will deliver into the back story of Altair and his adventures in the Third Crusade. Is it just me or does it seem like the word "wacky" needs to be in there?

"Assassin's Creed is an all-new video game franchise that will immerse players into another time and experience," shared Tony Key, vice president, marketing at Ubisoft. "The Assassin's Creed books, which begin by layering elements that prequel the game, will only expand upon this adventure to an eager audience of gamers and thrill seekers."

"With the anticipation for Assassin's Creed building every day, it's tremendously exciting to be in partnership with Ubisoft at the launch of this extraordinary franchise," said Marco Palmieri, Senior Editor at Pocket Books. "For gamers who can't get enough, the novels will offer a compelling expansion of the Assassin's Creed experience."

I think books are replacing movies as a way for publishers to cross-promote their video games. That makes me sad.
Brian Crecente

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