I still can't fathom a publisher's seemingly irrational desire to cram just about any television show that is successful into a video game. From Lost to Desperate House Wives, they all seem like train wrecks to me.

The latest irrational TV crossover comes from Take-2 which just announced that they are turning Deal or No Deal, a show about saying yes or no, into a computer game.

Unless this thing comes packed with a $1 million dollar grand prize it's going to suck. Hit the jump for the full press release if you're in a masochistic mood. Brian Crecente

New York, NY - September 19, 2006 - Global Star Software, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO) today announced that Endemol USA has awarded it the exclusive North American license to develop, publish and distribute PC games based on the hit television game show Deal or No Deal. Deal or No Deal for the PC will be in stores this holiday season with an expected retail price of $19.99.
Hosted by Howie Mandel, the Deal or No Deal program began as a special event last year on NBC and has grown into a TV phenomenon and anchor program for the NBC 2006 fall schedule. Over 100 million viewers tuned in last season to watch eager contestants vie for the million dollar prize.
Deal or No Deal for PC captures the energy of the game show and will feature the likeness and voice of Howie Mandel. The beautiful models and the mysterious banker will round out the suspenseful game play.
"With Howie Mandel hosting the Deal or No Deal PC game, we're bringing all the excitement of the hit TV show home to viewers this holiday season," said Steven Lux, vice president of publishing for Global Star Software. "Given the wide demographics of viewers attracted to the show, this is a wonderful game for everyone in the family to play."
Additionally, the game contains a special customization mode that allows for family-friendly prizes in the briefcases instead of money. Examples include "make my bed" or "wash the car," adding an extra element of relevancy to gamers at home. The multiplayer mode lets gamers play as either the contestant or the Banker, and for added fun a collection of mini-games derived from the show enhance the Deal or No Deal experience.
"Endemol is thrilled to partner with Global Star Software to bring the larger-than-life Deal or No Deal phenomenon to PC gamers of all ages," said Lisa Higgins, SVP Production, Endemol USA. "The PC game is a perfect complement to the program with both TV show and customizable game play modes."
Deal or No Deal is licensed in conjunction with the Joy Tashjian Licensing Group and the game was developed by Cat Daddy Games, a Take Two development studio.