"My understanding is that they will use the engine, the Maya files where the characters come to life, but they'll be creating animated... I think it's a 20-minute cartoon. I'm personally quite intrigued to see how it comes out. Lego, every time they've had a new brand out, they've done some CGI stuff as well, but I think this will be quite different."

This would be a perfect opportunity to bring Adam West back into the Batman fold, as I can't see Batman: The Animated Series lead Kevin Conroy's voice coming out of Lego Batman's little round head.

20-minute Lego Batman cartoon in works [GI.biz]

Cartoon Network Launches New Build-Your-Own Ben 10: Alien Force Game on CartoonNetwork.com

New Ben 10: Alien Force Game Creator and Current Record-Holding Ben 10 Digital Offerings Build Excitement for Newly Revamped Series of Hit Animated Show

ATLANTA—(BUSINESS WIRE)—Cartoon Network New Media today launched Ben 10 Alien Force: Game Creator, a new, free online game that merges the popular animated action franchise with user-generated content, marking the first game of its kind.

Beginning today, fans can access the tools and animations they need to build their own action-adventure game featuring the new series Ben 10: Alien Force, which premiered with record-breaking ratings April 18 on Cartoon Network. The game is based on the new Ben 10 series, which advances the plot five years into the future. The Ben 10: Alien Force Game Creator lets users easily build their own online games and share them with fans everywhere. Players choose their own hero from four of Ben's new aliens — Swampfire, Humongousaur, Jetray and Spidermonkey — each of which has unique powers and abilities that impact game play. Completed games can be shared with friends and sent to CartoonNetwork.com's game gallery for other fans to play and rate.

Ben 10 games are consistently among the most popular of the 190+ free games at CartoonNetwork.com. Most recently, the first game based on the new series, Ben 10 Alien Force: Forever Defense, smashed records on the site, scoring more than five million game plays in its debut week of March 10 - 16, 2008. The previous game-play record-holder for the site was also from Ben 10 with Ben 10: Savage Pursuit, which grabbed more than four million game plays its first week online in October of 2007.

"This year we will launch thousands of new games — or, rather, our audience will," said Paul Condolora, senior vice president, Digital for Turner's Animation, Young Adults and Kids Media Group. "Ben 10: Alien Force Game Creator gives kids the power and creative freedom to build and publish their own games and is a first step in our ambition to become the number one online destination where kids go to create, play and share games."

Ben 10 games currently dominate the top 10 most popular games at CartoonNetwork.com, holding five of the top ten spots, including Ben 10: Alien Force Forever Defense at No. 2; Ben 10: Alien Force Action Packs at No. 3; Ben 10: Battle Ready at No. 4 and Ben 10: Cannonbolt Pinball at No. 5.

Ben 10 characters are also part of Cartoon Network New Media's upcoming foray into the massively multiplayer online gaming market with Cartoon Network Universe: FusionFall. In addition, Ben 10 has invaded the mobile space with its title on Cartoon Network's games channel on Smashing Games for Verizon subscribers. Ring tones and wallpapers for mobile devices also are available at CartoonNetwork.com.

Ben 10 premiered on Cartoon Network in January 2006 and has consistently been the network's #1 show on Saturday mornings. Along with the new series, Ben 10 has also spawned a tremendously successful toy and video game line as well as two hit television movies. The live-action movie Ben 10: Race Against Time set record ratings for the network when over 13 million viewers watched during its 2007 Thanksgiving weekend premiere.

The newest Ben 10 series, Ben 10: Alien Force, premiered Friday, April 18, 2008 at 8 p.m. (ET, PT), and was the most-watched original series premiere in Cartoon Network history. The new series began the next chapter in the Ben 10 saga five years later, when 15-year-old Ben Tennyson chooses to once again put on the OMNITRIX. He discovers that it has reconfigured his DNA and can now transform him into 10 brand new aliens. Joined by his super-powered cousin Gwen Tennyson and his equally powerful former enemy Kevin Levin, Ben is on a mission to find his missing Grandpa Max. In order to save his Grandpa, Ben must defeat the evil DNAliens, a powerful alien race intent on destroying the galaxy, starting with planet Earth. Ben joins forces with other young heroes to save the galaxy and his Grandpa Max, while passing along his knowledge to a whole new generation.

D3PUBLISHER OF AMERICA TO WOW GAMERS THIS FALL WITH VIDEOGAME VERSION OF BEN 10: ALIEN FORCE, THE NEW CARTOON NETWORK SERIES

Follow Up to Last Year's Top-Selling Ben 10: Protector of Earth to Launch in Fall 2008

LOS ANGELES - May 1, 2008 - D3Publisher of America, Inc. (D3PA), a publisher and developer of interactive entertainment software, will bring Cartoon Network's next generation series BEN 10: ALIEN FORCE to videogame systems with BEN 10: ALIEN FORCE The Game on the Wii™ home videogame system, PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, Nintendo DS™ system and PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system. The successful inaugural game for the brand, Ben 10™: Protector of Earth, launched in October 2007 and has sold more than one million units worldwide. Based on the next generation television series launched on Cartoon Network last month, BEN 10: ALIEN FORCE The Game begins five years after Ben put away the DNA-scrambling Omnitrix, but now Grandpa Max has gone missing and the planet Earth is in grave danger. Gamers must help Ben take the Omnitrix out of retirement and lead eight different playable characters—including cousin Gwen, enemy-turned-ally Kevin Levin and five of Ben's brand new alien forms—to utilize their all-new super powers and defeat the intergalactic invaders! BEN 10: ALIEN FORCE The Game is slated to ship to retail outlets across North America in fall 2008.

"BEN 10: ALIEN FORCE The Game is the only console videogame that allows players to take command of the ALIEN FORCE team to authentically control and experience their brand-new superpowers," said Alison Quirion, vice president of marketing, D3PA. "Based on fans' warm reception of Ben's newest adventures and the impressive million-plus unit sales of the first Ben 10 videogame, we're confident that our latest collaboration with Cartoon Network on BEN 10: ALIEN FORCE The Game will prove even more successful."

"BEN 10: ALIEN FORCE set records as the most-watched original series premiere in Cartoon Network's history, winning its timeslot when it debuted, and each week the series continues to grow as destination viewing for kids," said Christina Miller, vice president of consumer products for Cartoon Network Enterprises. "The release of BEN 10: ALIEN FORCE The Game this fall will build upon the success of the first videogame by expanding fans' experience with the brand and giving them a new battle to win with Ben."

In BEN 10: ALIEN FORCE The Game, players work to find Grandpa Max and stop a diabolical Highbreed alien plot as they battle more than 20 types of enemies, including Highbreed invaders and DNAliens. Gamers take control of Ben and his new alien forms Swampfire, Jet Ray, Humungousaur, Spidermonkey and Big Chill to employ distinctly different and complex powers to manipulate fire, swim underwater, grow more than 60 feet tall, stick to walls, fly at mach speed, plus lots more! Gamers will also harness cousin Gwen's new talent to create an energy shield and use it to protect and attack, as well as Kevin Levin's ability to absorb materials like concrete, wood and metal to create an impenetrable shell on his body. BEN 10 ALIEN FORCE The Game is a fast-paced, 3D side-scrolling action adventure that offers eight playable characters, an unlimited combo system and puzzles and challenges that will engage players of all levels for hours at a time. The Nintendo DS version will offer alternate playable alien forms including Goop and Echo Echo, giving players additional unique powers to command and explore.

BEN 10: ALIEN FORCE The Game for Nintendo DS is under development by 1st Playable Productions, LLC. All other versions are under development by Monkey Bar Games™. The game is currently rated "RP" ("Rating Pending") by the ESRB.

"This is a game for absolutely everybody who enjoys simple but addictive gameplay," said Richard Lassiter, Brand Manager for Eidos. "The DS is the perfect console for this type of pick-up-and-play game, and Looney Tunes: Cartoon Concerto is the best way to relive those classic Looney Tunes moments."

Alan Probe: Amateur Surgeon [Adult Swim Games - Thanks king_e_dawg!]

Eternity's Child Heading to WiiWare (Updated) [WiiDS.co.uk]

That goo transforms the world's ordinary objects, such as tires and barrels, into mutated, less than scary monsters. You'll do the typical MMO whacking, whether it be with an oversized wrench or sword, or blasting with a poppy purple gun, taking out enemies to gain experience. From the hands-on time I spent with the game, it follows fairly standard MMO action conventions.

What sets the game apart are the nanos you can summon, super-deformed versions of characters like Mojo Jojo or Eduardo or Dexter. Each will give you special attack powers or physical abilities that will aid you in your quest, not unlike Phantasy Star Online's mags or other MMO-style pets.

The game also sports a sharp, clean, colorful graphical style that stands out in Western released MMOs. Textures look appropriately cartoony and every avatar shown at Comic Con looks like an anime-like tween. It's infectiously cute.

Fusion Fall is in alpha stage at this point and impossible to judge on its gameplay merits, but visually and conceptually it looks like a solid entry into the market. I signed up for the beta at Comic Con and hope to spend more time with it in the coming months.

Cartoon Network MMO Screens [Kotaku]

Update: Added the press release for the game.

Cartoon Network's Massively Multiplayer Online Game Unveils Playable Demo at Comic-Con 2007
Event-Goers to Get First Look at Cartoon Network Universe: FusionFall
FusionFall Producers and Designers Present Latest Information at Thursday Evening Panel

Cartoon Network's first massively multi-player online game (MMOG), Cartoon Network Universe: FusionFall, has its debut at Comic-Con 2007 in San Diego, beginning Wednesday, July 25. Scheduled for a summer 2008 release, the game will have playable demos at Cartoon Network's booth on the Comic-Con show floor. In addition, a panel of FusionFall creators will provide an in-depth look at the game at Comic-Con on Thursday, July 26 at 5:00 p.m. (PT) in Room 3 of the San Diego Convention Center.

FusionFall is an MMOG set in a re-imagined Cartoon Network universe. As a kid in this world, players will team up with other players and Cartoon Network characters to defend it from an alien invasion of epic proportions. The game is a mix of all the action of a 3-D console platform game and all the customization, character development and open-ended world exploration of an MMORPG (massively multi-player online role-playing game). In addition, small, super-deformed versions of Cartoon Network characters are collected along the way and travel with players, providing powers and abilities to assist during missions.

"We're thrilled to present a first look at FusionFall at this year's Comic-Con," said Paul Condolora, senior vice president and general manager of Cartoon Network New Media. "Our current offering of online games continues to be the main driver of Cartoon Network New Media's success, and we've surpassed 2 billion game plays annually for the past three years. FusionFall fulfills our goal of increasing the range of game play we offer, and we expect it to significantly expand our audience."

"One of the things we're most excited about in FusionFall is the game play," said Chris Waldron, executive producer of FusionFall. "With our audience and Cartoon Network characters, we knew we wanted to create a new kind of MMOG and develop a game that takes all the great action of popular console games and merges it with all the elements of MMORPGs that are so enticing to players."

The development of FusionFall is a first for the industry. Created through a partnership with leading Korean MMOG developer, Grigon Entertainment, the game brings Cartoon Network's beloved characters and sensibility to the fast-growing online gaming realm with an "East-meets-West" creative approach. Grigon Entertainment is best known for successfully developing and launching several online games in Asia, including Seal Online, a light-hearted role-playing game (RPG) that took the online gaming world by surprise.
In addition to the playable demo and panel at Comic-Con, new information can be found at www.fusionfall.com, beginning Wednesday, July 25. News updates, images and game-play footage will be available and users will be able to sign up for the official newsletter and a chance to beta test the game.

About Grigon Entertainment
Grigon Entertainment, one of the most prominent developers in Korea, the world's online game leader, is renowned for its depth of tradition and talent, and strongly believes and practices the ultimate goal of 'Games have to be fun!' Along with the successful launch of Seal Online, which caused sensations in six countries including China, Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, Indonesia and Korea, Grigon Entertainment has developed numerous titles for over eight years varying in all areas of genre (horror, racing, adventure, action, RPG) up to the charming fairytale-based QRing and casual tennis game, Gamebledon. Grigon Entertainment's titles are highly rated and respected for their technical and design ingenuity, brilliantly incorporating the developers' wit into the game, hence leading to the creation of "Grigon manias."

About Cartoon Network New Media
Cartoon Network New Media is responsible for the production of Cartoon Network's popular Web sites, which include CartoonNetwork.com and CartoonNetworkYa.com (the Spanish-language site for kids). CartoonNetwork.com is one of the most popular entertainment sites in the world for kids, attracting more than 6 million unique users each month (Nielsen NetRatings). Its top attraction is its roster of games, which drew more than 2 billion game plays in 2006.
In addition, Cartoon Network New Media is the creative force behind Cartoon Network's video-on-demand offerings, interactive TV and mobile offerings, which include partnerships with such major carriers as Sprint, Cingular and Verizon.

About Cartoon Network
Cartoon Network (CartoonNetwork.com), currently seen in more than 91 million U.S. homes and 160 countries around the world, is Turner Broadcasting System, Inc.'s ad-supported cable service offering the best in original, acquired and classic animated entertainment for kids and families. Overnight from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. Monday through Saturday and
10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Sunday (ET, PT), Cartoon Network shares its channel space with Adult Swim, a late-night destination showcasing original and acquired animation for young adults 18-34.
Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a Time Warner company, is a major producer of news and entertainment product around the world and the leading provider of programming for the basic cable industry.

Cartoon Network sends word that new details for their upcoming massively multiplayer online game, named Cartoon Network Universe: FusionFall, will be hitting tomorrow morning.

I was able to eke a few things out of them early though. First is the name, FusionFall, but I also got these two screens from in-game and news that there will be a playable demo at Comic-Con later this week. Cartoon Network will also have the development team at the show doing a panel Thursday evening.

Expect more details as well as some game-play footage tomorrow. Two things: those screens look pretty cool, especially that top one, and please, please,please include Adult Swim in the game, then I'll be happy.

Ps. Bloo too!

I'm still upset this series didn't air longer in the US. It had everything! A quirky animation style, likeable characters, fantastic creature designs and a theme-song performed by The Cure. THE CURE! Silly uncultured Americans. *hides*

Playlogic Signs Game Deal with Futurikon for "Dragon Hunters"

(Amsterdam, The Netherlands) June 28, 2007- Publisher Playlogic Entertainment, Inc. (OTC BB: PLGC) announced that it has signed a worldwide 3 year license with a 2 year extension, on all platforms, based on the popular franchise Dragon Hunters with Futurikon (France). The animated television series is on air and there is also a full feature-length animated movie based on the series scheduled for release early next year.

"We really enjoy starting this ambitious collaboration with Playlogic. The Universe of Dragon Hunters has a high creative value. Moreover the hunting stories, the humour and the variety of the Dragons allow for the creation of great videogames. We are sure that the Playlogic team will reach this goal!" states Philippe Delarue, CEO of Futurikon.

"We are very pleased to have entered into an agreement with Futurikon," comments Stefan Layer, Playlogic's VP of Sales and Marketing. "This cooperation enables Playlogic to exploit the Dragon Hunters universe on various platforms. Playlogic will be able to use material from the Dragon Hunters CGI movie out in cinemas in 2008, as well as from two seasons of the Dragon Hunters TV series."

Playlogic plans to publish the game version of Dragon Hunters on Nintendo DS in line with the movie release, scheduled for Q1 of 2008.

"The Dragon Hunters universe is a perfect match for a video game," states Dominique Morel, CTO of Playlogic. This concept is not only graphically very creative and original; Dragon Hunters is also a superb opportunity to create rich new interactive content, with hilariously fun game play. Playlogic and the developers already working with us on this game are totally enthusiastic about its potential. Hunting will never have been more fun!"

Compatible with PLAYSTATION 3 (PS3) and Wii, MEGA Series may be delivered via the broadband connection of each console and is accessible through the device's Internet browser, which both use custom Flash players from Adobe. MEGA Series programming will be based on Cartoon Network and Adult Swim shows. MEGA Series content is designed to be played simultaneously with streaming video and delivered episodically over time, providing a real-time immersive experience for fans.

The service wil be launched at the latest early 2008, and there better be a karaoke MC Pee Pants game or I'm going to be very disappointed. I WANT CANDY! Kim Phu

Cartoon Network to Deliver Digital Games to PS2, Wii [Games Industry]

All the graphics guys have to do is make it look like the cartoon, which they seem to be doing a passable job of here. I'll be the graphics guy. Developing gives me a headache. Michael Fahey

I've posted the theme song so everyone can remember the good times when Saturday morning cartoons were a marathon of animated bliss. Maybe you even watched the cartoon as a kid with a big bowl of Pac-Man cereal (I was more partial to the Muppets Show themed, "Crunchy Stars" from the Swedish Chef). Now if only there had been an Eek! the Cat video game out for Xbox, then I could be watching some classic episodes of that. Kim Phu

Free Pac-Man Episode Download on XLA Video Marketplace [Silconera]

Fully titled Aqua Teen Hunger Force Zombie Ninja Pro-Am, the game is "epic, action-adventure combat golf, cart racing game" that will "set a new standard for crime-fighting, golf-obsessed, food battles." Lofty goals, Midway.

Still, any game that features ninja and zombies and golf is probably going to sell, and sell well, regardless of the license. Hell, the press release was even fun to read and I detest the written word. It's after the jump. Michael McWhertor

MIDWAY AND CARTOON NETWORK ANNOUNCE AQUA TEEN HUNGER FORCE ZOMBIE NINJA PRO-AM

Game Based on Hit Animated Comedy from Adult Swim Scheduled for Release on PlayStation 2 Computer Entertainment System this Fall

CHICAGO - March 21, 2007 - Midway Games Inc. (NYSE: MWY), a leading interactive entertainment industry publisher and developer, today announced that it will be developing an interactive title based on the hit comedy series from Adult Swim - Aqua Teen Hunger Force. Aqua Teen Hunger Force Zombie Ninja Pro-Am is scheduled to be available for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system this fall. The series, which follows the exploits of a trio of sentient fast-food items, has also inspired a feature length film - Aqua Teen Hunger Force Colon Movie Film For Theaters due in theaters April 13.

Aqua Teen Hunger Force Zombie Ninja Pro-Am is an epic, action-adventure combat golf, cart racing game that gives fans an opportunity to experience the Aqua Teen universe in a whole new way. When Frylock is admitted to the prestigious Jersey Pines Golf Club, Master Shake decides to show the uppity members that he is also just as good (and uppity) and deserves a place in their exclusive club. Meatwad is, of course, persuaded to join in, and the three crime-fighting food products use golf clubs and a variety of other weapons in ways not intended as they battle numerous villains, fan favorites and other show characters.

"Aqua Teen Hunger Force is a unique and completely hilarious property," said Steve Allison, chief marketing officer, Midway. "We are working closely with Aqua Teen creators Matt Maiellaro and Dave Willis to bring the tone of the TV show and movie into a video game."

"We are thrilled to be bringing the hilarious antics of Adult Swim's Aqua Teen Hunger Force to a one of kind gaming experience," said Christina Miller, VP of Consumer Products for Cartoon Network Enterprises, the network's global merchandising division. "This game will set a new standard for crime-fighting, golf-obsessed, food battles."

"This golden chalice represents a new age in gaming, the likes of which has never before been seen on this planet. The weak will tremble at the awesomeness of our full color, hand-made graphics!" said creators Maiellaro and Willis simultaneously and in unison.

'Aqua Teen Hunger Force' is an original comedy series that is part of Adult Swim, Cartoon Network's top-rated late-night sister service which presents programming six nights per week for a total of 45 hours. 'Aqua Teen Hunger Force' had its series premiere in September 2001, when Adult Swim launched. More than 60 episodes of the series have been completed to date. The Aqua Teen Hunger Force Colon Movie Film for Theaters, also written and produced by Maiellaro and Willis, is scheduled to debut on over 800 screens on April 13, and will uncover the mysterious origins of Meatwad, Frylock and Master Shake.

Cartoon Network has awarded D3Publisher of America the video game rights to the popular cartoon Ben 10, which features a young boy named Ben who discovers an alien device that allows him to transform into different alien heroes, each with their own unique form and powers. It's kind of like the old DC Dial H for Hero comic. Speaking of which, someone needs to secure those rights. Dial H would make an awesome game...just think of the downloadable community created content possibilities alone. Boggles the mind it does.

Anyway, Ben 10 has all the properties in place to make an excellent video game. A morphing hero that can adapt to many different situations, a Cthulu looking alien enemy complete with minions, a human nemesis named Kevin 11 who would be perfect for two-player competitive gameplay...the list goes on. Of course, as a licensed Cartoon Network children's property whichever developer the license ends up with will mangle it horribly, but a guy can dream. Michael Fahey

Cartoon Network Awards D3Publisher of America The Gaming Rights to Ben 10

Letting Any Kid Be an Alien Superhero

What kid wouldn't want to be Ben Tennyson - a boy who can turn into hundreds of different alien heroes? Soon they can. Cartoon Network Enterprises, the global licensing and merchandising arm of the network, has awarded D3Publisher of America, Inc. (D3PA) the gaming rights to the hit action-adventure series Ben 10. D3PA, a leading publisher and developer of interactive entertainment software, has worldwide publishing rights to develop and publish console, handheld and PC games based on the Ben 10 series. The first Ben 10 interactive video game is scheduled for release in fall 2007.

"Interactive gaming has proven to be a leading category for our core audience," said Christina Miller, vice president of U.S. consumer products for Cartoon Network Enterprises. "We are fortunate to be partnering once again with an industry leader who knows the trends and gaming formats that will appeal to our fan base and allow them to experience Ben's world in a whole new way."

"Cartoon Network's Ben 10 has all the right ingredients for a successful game," said Careen Yapp, vice president of licensing and business development, D3PA. "Working with this strong franchise will give D3PA the opportunity to translate the smart and edgy action of the series into a fantastic gameplay experience for its large fanbase."

Ben 10 follows the exciting adventures of 10-year-old Ben Tennyson who discovers a strange alien "wristwatch" called the Omnitrix, that enables him to transform into different alien beings, each with unique powers and abilities—all while retaining his 10-year-old personality. The series launched in January 2006, ranking #1 in its time period on basic cable for delivery with boys 6-11 and 9-14.

Ben 10, which was recently greenlit for a fourth season, can be seen on Cartoon Network Tuesday through Friday at 4 p.m. ET/PT where it anchors the popular Miguzi programming block. New episodes of Ben 10 will debut on Saturdays at 10 a.m. beginning February 17th.

The Ben 10 game from D3PA will help to round out an already robust Ben 10 consumer products program, which includes toys, games, apparel, footwear, accessories, home furnishings, back-to-school items and publishing.
Cartoon Network has a strong partnership with D3PA which has produced games for Nintendo's GBA and DS platforms based on the network's animated rock adventure Hi Hi PuffyAmiYumi.

D3Publisher of America, Inc. is a subsidiary of D3, Inc. with headquarters in Tokyo. D3Publisher of America's strategic focus is on licensed and original titles from leading third-party developers that appeal to mass-market consumers or gaming enthusiasts. Based in Los Angeles, D3Publisher of America distributes and publishes software for personal computers and the major console platforms including Game Boy Advance, Nintendo GameCube , Nintendo DS , PlayStation game console, PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, PSP (PlayStation Portable) system and the Xbox video game system from Microsoft. For additional information on D3Publisher of America and its products, visit the website at http://www.d3publisher.us.

Cartoon Network Enterprises (CNE), the global branding and merchandising arm of Cartoon Network, is charged with building consumer product franchises for Cartoon Network, its brands and characters from the channel's growing library of award-winning original programming. CNE also works to secure and support long-term licensee partnerships across all key merchandising categories. The division currently offers consumer product programs for an array of marquee animation franchises including Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends, Ben 10, The Powerpuff Girls, Ed, Edd and Eddy, Hi Hi Puffy AmiYumi, My Gym Partner is a Monkey, Camp Lazlo, The Grim Adventures of Billy and Mandy, Adult Swim and more. Cartoon Network (CartoonNetwork.com), currently seen in more than 91 million U.S. homes and 160 countries around the world, is Turner Broadcasting System, Inc.'s ad-supported cable service offering the best in original, acquired and classic animated entertainment for kids and families. Overnight from 11 p.m.-6 a.m. (ET, PT), Cartoon Network shares its channel space with Adult Swim, a late-night destination showcasing original and acquired animation for young adults 18-34.
Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a Time Warner company, is a major producer of news and entertainment product around the world and the leading provider of programming for the basic cable industry.

###

Classic Media announced today that their cadre of classic cartoon characters are being ushered into the digital age via an agreement with Flashman studios. Together the two companies plan to actively seek out gaming publishers to gamify (my word) icons such as Rocky and Bullwinkle, Dick Tracy, George of the Jungle, and Underdog!

When criminals in this world appear
And break the laws that they should fear
And frighten all who see or hear
The cry goes up both far and near
For Underdog!

Underdog worship aside, it's good to see old favorites being modernized through the medium of gaming. It is NOT, however, good to see them viciously sodomized by a BAD video game and then unceremoniously dumped back in their graves. They'd better step lightly, or Underdog is going to be pissed. Michael Fahey

Classic Toons Tapped for Games [Animation Magazine]

It looks like Special Edition fever has struck the Xbox 360's Poke... um Pinata-festooned game Viva Pinata. When the game hits in November it will come in two fancy flavors. One will include just the game, while the two-disc Special Edition version will come sealed into a colorful Pinata in the shape of a PS3. To get the game out you'll have to smash the paper mache creation with a Wii-mote shaped bat. Once you crack the thing, the game will spill out along with a collection of chocolate offal and Gummy intestines.

Hahahaha. Not really. But wouldn't that be cool? Actually the game comes in a plain as vanilla case, but does include two discs loaded with a bunch of already free playable demos and an episode of the also free Viva Pinata animated series.

Fortunately, the SE copy is only $50. I wonder what the regular copy will run for? Brian Crecente

When the highly-anticipated "Viva Pi ata" video game for the Xbox 360 hits store shelves this November, kids and adults can break into the two-disc Special Edition "Viva Pi ata" Xbox 360 game with added bonuses for the whole family to enjoy. The Special Edition game, available for a limited time, will include playable demos of the season's hottest family-friendly titles and an episode from the "Viva Pi ata" animated series.

"Viva Pi ata," the high-energy, mass-appeal entertainment property created by Rare and brought to life by Microsoft and 4Kids Entertainment, reveals a vibrant world of living pi ata animals designed to capture and inspire the imagination of people of all ages. Kids were recently introduced to the cast of characters from the "Viva Pi ata" animated series now on air and available for download via Xbox Live Marketplace in the US and Canada and soon around the world. They can look forward to even more pi ata fun when the Xbox 360 game hits store shelves this holiday season.

In addition to the "Viva Pi ata" game, which will allow players to create their own environment where they can attract and host more than 60 species of wild pi atas and customize pi ata-filled adventures in their unique-ever-growing world, the Special Edition "Viva Pi ata" game, priced at $49.99 USD, will include:

A playable demo of LucasArts' "LEGO Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy," which combines the fun and endless customization of LEGO play and with a hilarious tongue-in-cheek take on the epic story, characters and action from the classic Star Wars: Episodes IV, V and VI films

A playable demo of the arcade classic "Frogger" that is enhanced and reinvigorated for the Xbox 360. The game features new artwork that matches and compliments the original style

A playable demo of "Cloning Clyde" for gamers to explore a visually compelling world filled with hilarious action and crazy adventure as they struggle to escape the clutches of the evil company Dupliclone, Inc.

A "Time Pilot" playable demo for gamers to fly a futuristic fighter jet with the capability to travel through time to destroy wave after wave of enemies

A return to AstroLab for a playable demo of "Marble Blast," where players guide their marbles through a rich cartoon landscape of moving platforms and perilous obstacles

Also included in the Special Edition "Viva Pi ata" game will be a sneak peek at the wacky, zany, anything-can-happen animated TV series, produced by 4Kids Entertainment & Bardel Entertainment. With this full-length episode of the colorful animated series, Kids can experience Pi ata Island for themselves, where multitudes of happy, colorful pi atas live the sweet life.

I just finished watching the premiere of Viva Pinata with my 5-year-od son. He loved it, I thought it was typical empty children's programming.

Obviously, the show is made for children, but I find that children's cartoons come in two flavors: the kind that only children can enjoy and the kind loaded with jokes that only adults get. This one is definitely of the first sort.

While I found Viva Pinata relatively boring, Tristan really seemed to be into it. He thought it was funny that the show was peopled entirely by Pinatas and asked when the show would be on again.

Despite what I thought, the game didn't really seem loaded with game references. Sure, there were a couple: Every time a pinata broke in some way candy would spill out and a bunch of other pinatas would rush over and eat it. I think it was meant to be cute, but I found it more disturbing than anything else.

I did learn one thing from the second episode in the half hour broadcast. A plot point lets you know that if a Horsetachio (that's a horse pinata) eats blackberries and daisies they turn into a Zomba, which looked to be a striped horse pinata.

Meh. Brian Crecente

Via our sometimes nemesis, sometimes semi-clad sweetheart Faith Naked, we spotted this post over on Destructoid: "I Want To Have Sex With Carmen Sandiego."

Never has a post title been so refreshingly open and honest. In it, RevAnthony catalogues the many sophisticated reasons why he wants to have carnal congress with her, including "she's really hot" and "I like my women like I like my dogs: silent, or with my foot in their ass." Kinky!

His reasons are, of course, compelling in their own right... that is, if any reasons can justify wanting to have sex with an imaginary cartoon character. Carmen Sandiego may well be hot, but people who openly flaunt bulbous purple boners at video game characters are like that creep you knew in high school who admitted to masturbating to Bugs-Bunny-in-Drag. Florian Eckhardt

I Want To Have Sex With Carmen Sandiego [Destructoid]

Msoft's John Porcaro points out that merchandising vehicle Viva Pinata will be hitting Saturday morning television in the coming weeks. He got a chance to check out an episode and says his young kids will love it. I'm still confused about whether this intended to be Pokemon or the Sims. Brian Crecente

Viva Pinata on TV [Gamerscoreblog]

This opinion piece on CantonRep.com addresses the high pregnancy rate of students at Timken High School, and places blame squarely on everything except lack of access to birth control and decent sex education. These two things are not mentioned once in the entire article.

Video games, however, are.

Whose fault is it that more than 13 percent of Timken's girls are with child? Some would say fault-finding isn't a fruitful exercise, but in this case, it's critical. Suspects range from movies, TV and video games to lazy parents and lax discipline. Only one thing is sure: Schools don't impregnate children.

This is the first and last time games are mentioned, but that they're mentioned at all is frankly shocking.

Here we are, the gaming "community" as it were, desperately trying to get girls to play games, any games, and it turns out that Ohio teens are so far ahead of us that they've found a way to actually impregnate each other with them. Eliza Gauger

The 'irresponsible' should get blame [Canton Rep, via Digg]

It's official: Everyone is working on a massively multiplayer online game. Cartoon Network just announced that they have partnered with Grigon Entertainment to put together a MMO that will be packed with the likes of Mac, Bloo, Ben 10 and the Kids Next Door.

While at first blush this sounds like a formula for instant crap, there are a couple of tidbits that have me thinking the game stands a chance. The game is going to be a free download, making money off of a yet-to-be-announced subscription and in-game micro transactions.

The press release also says that the game's theme will be built around a "East-meets-West" creative approach, which sounds very interesting, especially if they mean that we will be seeing western cartoon characters mingling with Anime.

The game is set to hit in spring 2008. Hit the jump for a bunch of time-wasting PR babble.

"Cartoon Network is an immersive experience for our fans, and this MMOG will allow our fans to interact with their favorite characters like never before. Not only will kids be able to play with their favorite characters like Mac and Bloo, Ben 10 and the Kids Next Door, but they will also be able to develop their own online gaming personalities and interact, virtually, with other players in a safe way," said Jim Samples, Cartoon Network executive vice president and general manager. "This MMOG is a key part of Cartoon Network's growth strategy, and is an important complement to our mobile, broadband and our existing online business. With the MMOG, mobile content, our Web sites and, of course, our linear network, Cartoon Network is always on for kids."

"Online games have been the most important driver of Cartoon Network New Media's success over the last few years. With more than 84 million U.S. homes expected to have broadband Internet access by 2008, and Cartoon Network's reach and creative vision, we're excited to enter the fast-growing world of massively multiplayer online gaming," said Paul Condolora, senior vice president and general manager, Cartoon Network New Media. "In Grigon Entertainment, we have found a partner who understands how to build a successful MMOG for the casual marketplace. With our characters and creative direction, along with Grigon's experience and technical know-how, we think Cartoon Network's MMOG will have great success and longevity."

"It's my greatest pleasure to work as partners with Cartoon Network, the world's most influential entertainment brand," said Byung-Kyu Cho, chief executive officer of Grigon Entertainment Co., Ltd. "When I look at the globally adored characters of Cartoon Network getting together harmonically with the renowned strength and uniqueness of Grigon, I have all my confidence that we will proudly present an online game which will astonish the world."

Brian Crecente

Konami and Majesco have teamed-up to slap together a craptastic Dance Dance Revolution spin-off featuring Strawberry Shortcake and her posse of confections. Apparently the Care Bears, Smurfs and Mr Magoo had their dance cards full.

Strawberry Shortcake Dance Dance Revolution lets players experience the exciting action of DDR with a Strawberry Shortcake twist. Featured characters include Strawberry Shortcake, Blueberry Muffin, Raspberry Torte, Lemon Meringue and Rainbow Sherbet dancing along with themed music such as "Straw-Buh-Buh-Buh-Buh-Berry Shortcake." As a Plug'N'Play product, Strawberry Shortcake Dance Dance Revolution connects directly to a television set without a game console, delivering an interactive experience on a custom Strawberry Shortcake dance pad. The game features a two player mode and multiple difficulty settings that make it easy for players of all ages to enjoy, while the game's lively music makes it a great source of active fun for the whole family.

I think anytime a game does anything associated with a talking bit of pitiable desert food it's time to close up shop. Brian Crecente

Click the image to see full size, hosted here on Joystiq.

I love this. This is a fantastic new style and I am stoked for this game now. The distinctiveness of the different classes, the anatomy of the characters, the color palette and personality...the art department on this game is a winner. Look at the little touches like the athletic socks on the guy on the right, and the pants bunching under the kneepads of the engineer.

This is attention to detail, and characterization, and just overall excellent design. I can't wait to see them in action. Eliza gauger

As a result of the game's success Nintendo has already hinted at plans for a Wii version and is also planning an animated movie, to open in Japan this December. Unnamed members of the game's development team are said to be involved in the production, which will apparently retain the themes which has made it so popular - despite the fact that the game has no overarching storyline or ending. The director of the movie will be Jouji Shimura, who has previously worked on properties such as Master Keaton and Shin Angyo Onshi.

Nintendo has previously hinted at plans to enter the animation business, although it is unclear whether this new Animal Crossing project is a major part of those plans, or merely a separate response to the game's success.

Actually, Nintendo getting into animation is a fantastic idea. They have a portfolio of kid friendly characters to easily rival Disney or Warner Bros... yet their game worlds tend to have a touch of surreality to them, like Fleischer Brothers shorts. As long as it was the sort of animation that used to be ubiquitous — high-quality, aimed at children and adults alike — I could see myself getting excited about a Mario animated movie. - Florian Eckhardt

Previously: Anime Crossing
Animal Crossing Hits 3 Million In Japan, Anime Planned [Gamasutra]

Microsoft blogger extraordinaire TriXie unveiled the new, slick art for her and the other Xbox bloggers.

The new illustrations involved a photo shoot and "weeks and weeks of hard work by our uber-talented Xbox.com art team."

Sure, they each have their own swanky illustrations, but do they have a bobble head.

Hit the jump for the new pics.

To help embed the idea of walking, talking, romancing candy-filled paper mache animals, Microsoft has signed a deal with 4Kids Entertainment for a cartoon about the game.

The Saturday morning cartoon will be a "3D animated television series" and hit this fall on Fox during the 4Kids TV time slot. 4Kids are also responsible for Yu-GI-Oh!, Pokemon, Cabbage Patch Kids and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

The show will also result in "additional licensed products" in 2007. In other words: Expect Toys!

Microsoft Game Studios Shane Kim told me that while the cartoon will depcit the Pinatas talking and such, the game won't. In the game, you are the central character. Though it sounds like there won't be any avatar for you.

Kim described the show as having a "Seinfeld, Friends dynamic." I'm not so sure about that.

Looks like the Warner Brothers have signed up for some Viewtiful Joe goodness. The Kids WB announced today that they have ordered 26 episodes of the cartoon based on the video game. The network will air the show on Saturdays starting this fall and I predict it will suck major ass.

"Viewtiful Joe" Comes to Kids WB This Fall [Toon Zone, thanks Chrono]