Marvel looking to improve videogames, get into casual [Variety] [Pic]

Bendis, who was one of the executive producers of the game, said that it was "gorgeous and fantastic" but ultimately killed by a faceless Microsoft exec.

CMix: It's no secret that you're an avid gamer. Is there any comic character or title that you'd still like to see in a videogame that hasn't popped up yet?

BB: Well, you're talking to one of the executive producers of the ill-fated Marvel MMO that went away. I have my laptop here, and on it I have the "X-Mansion" level fully completed that only I and five other people have access to play. It's gorgeous and fantastic and no one will ever see it. So I feel bad, because I think that MMO was a phenomenal idea that was extremely well executed and it went away because some guy at Microsoft who we'll never know pulled the plug on it before it even got underway.

But adding to that, I think that they should take each of these Marvel events and turn them into a videogame franchise. "Civil War," which will be part of the next Ultimate Alliance, "House of M," "Secret Wars"...

CMix: "Secret Invasion?"

BB: "Secret Invasion." Absolutely.

Hey, maybe if Microsoft wants nothing to do with it a third-party or Sony can grab it up. I'm sure the fans would still love to see it come to life.

Interview Brian Bendis on Secret Invasion, TV and Marvel's MMO [ComicMix, thanks Nick]

Please stop putting Spiderman games in big open sandbox environments where you swing around and do oh so slight variations on 4 pretty dull mission types (chase/race/collect/etc) and then once in a while toss in a boss fight and/or a somewhat unique mission.

I LOVE Marvel Comics and I LOVE the promise of games based on Marvel Comics. But why can't you guys make a game that feels like a comic? I don't mean art style wise; I don't mean like Comix Zone with panels and cliche stuff like that. I mean feels like a comic in a story based, narrative way: a game that shows off the OTHER aspect that makes Marvel Comics so special: The characters/story. It's not JUST about the powers, you know. But your games are always ONLY about the powers.

Won't somebody be kind enough to let David Jaffe make a Marvel game? Just listen to that passion! Our Spidey Sense tells us he's got a great Marvel game in him.

Dear: The People Who Make Marvel Comics Video Games [DavidJaffe.Biz via CVG] Pic]

Don’t think it’s terribly well-known (and the possibility remains it’s an elaborate hoax), but when Marvel: Ultimate Alliance was in development, Activision apparently were keen on throwing Link & Samus into the game as bonus characters, sweeten the Nintendo-branded pot. They even went ahead and got the characters running in the game. Didn’t work. Nintendo said no, thanks. Bummer. Ah well, this vid’s now surfaced, allegedly of the unreleased content, showing Samus in action. On the PS2 version of the game, no less.

[via Go Nintendo]

That's right! Red. On your Xbox 360. You can see how fantastic of an idea this was.

Red Hulk Smashes Xbox 360 [Marvel.com - thanks, Joshua!]

"Marvel is one of the true crown jewels in the entertainment industry and we are thrilled at the prospect of both building the Marvel Super Hero Squad brand and further developing our relationship with Marvel," said Brian Farrell, president and CEO, THQ."

THQ and Marvel Enter into Exclusive Licensing Agreement for Video Games Based on Marvel's Super Hero Squad

AGOURA HILLS, Calif.—(BUSINESS WIRE)—THQ Inc. (NASDAQ: THQI) and Marvel Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: MVL) announced today that they have entered into an exclusive licensing agreement to create video games based on the burgeoning, kid-friendly Marvel Super Hero Squad franchise. Pursuant to the multi-year agreement, THQ has obtained the exclusive, worldwide rights to publish content for all current and next-generation consoles, handheld systems, as well as Windows PC. The initial Marvel Super Hero Squad game is scheduled for release in fall 2009.

The agreement fits perfectly in both THQ's and Marvel's growth strategies. For THQ, the addition of the Marvel brand further strengthens its position as the pre-eminent creator and publisher of kids video games. For Marvel, the relationship with THQ provides a premier interactive entertainment partner for its important Marvel Super Hero Squad franchise, which is designed to be an engaging introduction into the Marvel Universe for young kids.

"Marvel is one of the true crown jewels in the entertainment industry and we are thrilled at the prospect of both building the Marvel Super Hero Squad brand and further developing our relationship with Marvel," said Brian Farrell, president and CEO, THQ. "We are dedicated to expanding our unmatched success story in the kids space and this agreement with Marvel is an excellent complement to our portfolio."

Simon Phillips, President, Marvel International and Head of Worldwide Animation and Video Games, added, "Licensing of the Marvel Super Hero Squad brand is a priority for Marvel, as we see it as a great entry point for kids to experience our renowned characters. We are making a strong commitment to the brand across toys, television and other media and consumer product channels and developing Marvel Super Hero Squad as a video game will play an important role in the development of this brand. The platform is an incredibly powerful medium that enables kids to experience the excitement of our franchises, as well as extend our characters and storylines. With THQ, we are confident we have a partner with a best in class pedigree of building and extending licensed kid-friendly brands in the interactive space."

An all-new Marvel brand, Marvel Super Hero Squad features an exciting, super-stylized look of the greatest Marvel Super Heroes, serving to expand the traditional Marvel audience to a core 4-10 year-old audience. Fun and humor are waiting around every corner in Marvel Super Hero Squad where popular characters including Iron-Man, Hulk, Spider-Man, Captain America, Wolverine, Thor, The Fantastic Four, and many more are thrust into adventures in a single caricatured Super Hero City. Along the way, they will have to thwart the plans of popular Marvel villains Doctor Doom, Magneto, Iron Monger, Loki, the Abomination and countless other infamous baddies.

Marvel is launching a major multi-media campaign for the brand. Marvel Animation is currently in production on an animated television series that is expected to debut on air in 2009. Additionally, Marvel Comics is now featuring Marvel Super Hero Squad comic strips within several of its all ages books and will be introducing a dedicated Marvel Super Hero Squad comic book series in fall 2008. Marvel has already secured deals with Hasbro as master toy partner, Disguise/Cesar for dress-up and Mega Bloks for construction toys and continues to seek deals with industry leading partners to develop merchandise based on the unique look of the Marvel Super Hero Squad property.

Marvel will no longer be involved in direct toy operations, it said, to increase its focus on entertainment and licensing opportunities. The company is also looking ahead to its next three years of character franchises — including an Iron Man 2 film to be released on April 30th, 2010.

Following the Iron Man sequel in April, Marvel will follow up with Thor on June 4th, 2010. Also up ahead? An "Avengers-themed summer," with two Avengers movies planned for May (The First Avenger: Captain America) and July of 2011 (The Avengers). The results announcement didn't reveal whether video game tie-ins were planned for the upcoming films — but it did show that they're working on a Spider-Man musical with music and lyrics by U2's Bono and The Edge.

Marvel chairman Morton Handel said, "Marvel's self-produced feature film slate launched this past weekend with a performance that firmly establishes Iron Man as a major new film franchise, and the Company eagerly awaits the June premiere of The Incredible Hulk, Marvel's second self-produced film. In addition, Marvel has been investing in other important areas of growth such as the Internet where, to lead the Company's newly formed Global Digital Media Group, Marvel recently announced the hiring of Ira Rubenstein. Marvel has a strong foundation to build from, and the Company is adding infrastructure to maximize these opportunities."

When we first entered into the development and agreement of the development of 'Marvel Universe Online,' we thought we would create another subscription-based MMO. And if you really look at the data there's basically one that's successful and everything else wouldn't meet our level or definition of commercial success.

Microsoft's Shane Kim On 'Fable 2,' Why Marvel MMO Was Canceled And More [MTV Multiplayer]

Shown only in trailer form, the EA Chicago fighter looked to bring Marvel mainstays Spider-Man, Dr. Doom, Captain America and the Hulk together for a next-gen fisticuffs-fest that saw the characters battling amid crowds of bystanders, toppling buildings and generally wreaking havoc. Marvel's other multi-character title, Marvel Universe Online, has also been the subject of cancellation talks. Maybe Marvel should just stick to movies.

Electronic Arts, Marvel Dissolve Game Deal [GameTap]

This weekend's 1UP Yours podcast re-ignited the Microsoft rumor mill, hinting none-too-subtly that Microsoft Game Studios head Shane Kim may be the one on the way out.

When discussing last week's rumor, 1UP's Garnet Lee teased N'Gai Croal with the hint "Hey, N'Gai, do you watch any Nickelodeon like 'Something Possible'?" when the topic surfaced. One could then assume that Lee was referring to the cartoon "Kim Possible" and that the reference was in relation to Mr. Kim from Microsoft. How's that for confirmation?

Bettenhausen chimed in with the "Rumors about Microsoft canceling games and rumors about people leaving Microsoft aren't new. We've been having these for five years. And, the leakiest company around, a lot of times these things turn out to be true." Former GameVideos director Mark MacDonald later tempered the rumor's reality with a warning that the rumor was "something you kind of just heard" as opposed to something that sounded more confirmed.

To hear more of the discussion, skip to about (this is not a typo) 2 hours, 40 minutes into the criminally long recent podcast.

1UP Yours - November 16, 2007 [1UP]

Nothing has been shown of the massively multiplayer online game save a pre-rendered teaser trailer since it was announced in September of last year, but Microsoft Game Studios and developer Cryptic clearly had high hopes for MUO. According to 1UP's report, "serious, potentially stalling, development troubles" may be responsible for reps at MS and Cryptic being mum on its progress.

That Cryptic recently sold intellectual property rights to the City of Heroes franchise, losing a portion of development staff in tandem, may have something to do with MUO's rumored problems.

As of right now, it's all unofficial and Microsoft doesn't seem to be providing any fresh details on the game. Keep your eyes on it though, as Marvel Universe Online's prognosis doesn't sound too promising.

Is Marvel Universe Online Dead? [1UP]

Marvel, other comics go online [Yahoo! News via Evil Avatar]

A source has also leaked me with the surprisingly honest memo sent to EA employees from Frank Gibeau, President of EA Games. In it he says:

"Within the EA Games Label, we are committed to running each franchise and facility as a city/state, teams with unique creative identities as well as responsibility for product quality, ship dates and profitability....Unfortunately, EA Chicago hasn't been able to meet that standard....Closing EA Chicago is the toughest decision I've made in my career - one that in no way reflects on the talent and dedication of the people who work there."

Read the full memo from EA after the jump...

FROM FRANK GIBEAU Today we are announcing the closure of our studio in Chicago. This is a difficult decision but we are convinced it's the right thing to do for the future of the Games Label and EA.

Within the EA Games Label, we are committed to running each franchise and facility as a city/state, teams with unique creative identities as well as responsibility for product quality, ship dates and profitability. We recognize that games require large investments and extended development cycles. We're willing to take risks, make long-term investments, and to support teams and individuals between launches. But each team is responsible for staying on a reasonable path to profitability. Sticking to that strategy is what gives us the financial resources and flexibility to take risks on new projects.

Unfortunately, EA Chicago hasn't been able to meet that standard. The location has grown dramatically in the past three years while revenue from the games developed there has not. The number of employees has grown from 49 in 2004 to 146 people currently in the new facility in downtown Chicago. As it stands, EA Chicago has no expectation of hitting our profitability targets until FY2011 or later.

Closing EA Chicago is the toughest decision I've made in my career - one that in no way reflects on the talent and dedication of the people who work there. I've enjoyed their games and consider GM Kudo Tsunoda to be one of the best creative minds in our industry. The people impacted by this decision will be treated fairly - we're offering relocation opportunities to many and there will be outplacement assistance and severance for all eligible employees.

I know this decision will be unsettling to many beyond those who work in Chicago. It's important that you understand that we are willing to take creative risks and make long-term investments in people and projects. But the city/state philosophy demands that every project be committed to delivering a reasonable expectation of profitability. It's a performance commitment that binds us together and ensures we have the resources we need to invest back into our people and creative output.

Finally, when EA announced our quarterly earnings last week, John and Warren referenced facility closures. We had planned to include Chicago in that communication but a personal tragedy in the studio - the death of a colleague - resulted in our delaying the announcement out of respect for his family and friends. I apologize for any confusion or concern that caused.

I think you'll find that in addition to tackling some serious challenges, we are making great progress on our business. Consumers have responded well to our new IP and quality scores are tracking up. We are proud of our recent hits, such as Skate and the success we have made in making a solid game with The Simpsons. And we're looking forward to breakout hits like Need For Speed Pro Street, Rockband, Burnout Paradise, Battlefield Bad Company, Army of Two, Crysis, and more in the future with Mass Effect and Mercenaries 2 World in Flames.

We're definitely headed in the right direction.

Frank

Smash! Boom! Plat! It's another huge Game Head World Exclusive! Tonight, EA Chicago pulls back the curtains on its new Marvel Fighting Game for the first time anywhere. See Juggernaut versus Captain America and so much more! And watch as EA puts Game Head host Geoff Keighley right in the middle of the action. From the team behind the Def Jam and Fight Night titles, EA Chicago brings massive destruction and whole hearted fun to the next generation.

Chacun son pack [Gamick]

Tsunoda—wearing sunglasses indoors—told the crowd that EA Chicago wouldn't simply be retrofitting an established fighting engine for the game, instead focusing on using the game's environment as a key component for battles. That doesn't mean that you'll see the beat bouncing, cracking environments from Def Jam ICON, though. Tsunoda said "ICONs a totally different game, but the basic premise in trying to incorporate the environment is a good one. I don't think we'll be going with a "Marvel beats" soundtrack, obviously. We're trying to open up the environment."

He also revealed that characters will be balanced in a fashion true to their Marvel Comics heritage, not simply "using three dials to balance them out." I assume that means that, in a one on one fight, Spider-Man would probably get his ass handed to him in a fight with the Hulk, but taking advantage of his surroundings will determine who is more powerful. "Debris", he says, "will need to be used in creative ways."

Visually, Tsunoda said of the game "We want high end next gen detail, but we want to have its own unique Marvel art style" adding that it "it's not going to look cel-shaded or anything like that." Expect "plenty of detail", but with a Marvel comic book art flair.

Asked by an attendee if the game would be similar to the PlayStation 2 game War of the Monsters, Tsunoda said that that "was a good analogy" but that the giant-monster scale of the new Marvel fighting game didn't apply. Instead, we'll see more street level battles populated with normal bystanders.

There's even more out there! Do a Google search for Iron Man and you'll find thousands of pieces of Iron Man 'concept art.' Was this really necessary, Sega PR people? Just tell us that Iron Man will be fighting tanks and we'll fill in the rest in our heads. If you'd have sent this out as Iron Man Desktop Wallpaper I would have been much more forgiving.

On a related note, check out Superhero Hype! for a write-up of the preview trailer for the Iron Man movie shown at Comic Con yesterday. Much more exciting than crouching in front of tanks.

"We looked at past comic-based games to find out what was missing and what was needed to successfully translate the intensity, excitement and fiction from comics into fighting games," said Kudo Tsunoda, General Manager and Vice President, EA Chicago. "We're challenging ourselves to make a game that delivers on the Super Hero promises of past top-tier fighting games."

I have my doubts your team will succeed, Kudo Tsunoda. It's not you, per se. It's just that after scores of crap licensed Marvel character games, Activision's screwing up Spiderman despite the fact that had they just released a prettier version of the same game they released for the second movie and I would have been perfectly happy, and EA's own failed attempt at making the promise you just made a reality, the only developers I trust with the Marvel license right now is Cryptic, and even them I am keeping a close eye on.

Kudo Tsunoda will be on hand at Comic Con today from 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. at a panel discussing the future of Marvel video game titles. Feel free to drop by and tell him I said that if his team manages to pull it off I will kiss him full on the lips - with tongue if Moon Knight is involved. Loves me some Moon Knight.

EA CHICAGO TO HEAD DEVELOPMENT ON AN ALL NEW MARVEL SUPER HERO FIGHTING GAME

Leading EA Development Team Takes on Marvel License to Deliver an Authentic All Marvel Super Hero Fighting Game for PLAYSTATION 3 and Xbox 360
CHERTSEY, UK. - July 27, 2007 - At Comic-con 2007, Electronic Arts Inc (NASDAQ: ERTS) announced that EA Chicago will develop a brand new Super Hero™ fighting game franchise using the Marvel license. The acclaimed studio is recognized for specializing in the fighting game genre. Launching on the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system and the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system, EA Chicago's Marvel fighting game will be released in 2008.

EA Chicago, the leading development team on top fighting franchises including EA SPORTS™ Fight Night series and DEF JAM: ICON™, is using their talent and expertise to take on an elusive game development challenge - to deliver an authentic Super Hero fighting experience that has been promised for years but never truly been delivered.

"We looked at past comic-based games to find out what was missing and what was needed to successfully translate the intensity, excitement and fiction from comics into fighting games," said Kudo Tsunoda, General Manager and Vice President, EA Chicago. "We're challenging ourselves to make a game that delivers on the Super Hero promises of past top-tier fighting games."

"Marvel Super Heroes are a natural fit in the fighting game genre, so we're excited to have Kudo and his team of fighting game experts put these characters toe-to-toe against each other on next generation consoles," said Justin Lambros, Vice President of Interactive, Marvel Entertainment. "This is a game that will deliver to both comic book fans and to fighting game diehards."

"Featuring a great all-star line-up of Marvel Super Heroes and Super Villains with incredible powers that are authentic to the fiction, huge environments and a living world that keeps the gameplay fresh, every battle will be unique; every battle will be like a first edition," added Tsunoda.

Tsunoda will be appearing at Comic-con on Marvel's video games panel to discuss the future of fighting and comic-based titles. The panel is on Friday, July 27 from 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. PT. Comic fans and gamers will meet the creators of their favorite Marvel video games and hear the inside scoop on the upcoming line-up of console, PC and handhelds games featuring the mighty Marvel Super Heroes.

Comic fans and gamers can also tune-in to Spike TV GAME HEAD on Friday, August 31 at 1:00 a.m. ET/PT for the worldwide unveiling of the EA Chicago/Marvel game and a behind-the-scenes look into EA Chicago development.

I am assuming layman will be lending a hand in fleshing out the massive 60-year back-story being crafted specifically for the game as well as the planned integration with current Marvel continuity. I'm betting this is going to be the first of many such announcements in the coming months, as to pull this off they're going to need a massive team of comic book talent. That, or the guys who hang out at my local comic shop, the know-it-all jerks.

VETERAN COMIC BOOK INSIDER JOINS FORCES WITH CRYPTIC STUDIOS

LOS GATOS, CA - JULY 17, 2007 - Cryptic Studios, Inc., a leading independent developer of massively-multiplayer online games, today announced that they have added to their growing talent pool with the hiring of a new Design Writer, John Layman. Layman, a twelve-year veteran of the comic book industry and an accomplished game writer, joined the team in their Los Gatos headquarters on Monday, June 25. He will be lending his expertise to Marvel(TM) Universe Online, the highly-anticipated MMO currently in development for PC and the Xbox 360(TM) video game and entertainment system from Microsoft.

"Having a creator like John on our side really demonstrates to our players — present and future — that we strive for authenticity when we bring a universe to life," said Michael Lewis, CEO of Cryptic Studios. "As a company, we are committed to hiring the most creative people in and out of the industry. It's all about delivering high-quality games that stay true to what both gamers and fans of the genre have come to expect from our studio."

Layman's comic credits include written work for several prominent Marvel Comics series, including Gambit, House of M: Fantastic Four, and Marvel Zombies vs. Army of Darkness. He is responsible for several creator-owned titles, including Puffed for Image Comics and Armageddon & Son for Oni Press. Layman also has several notable games to which he has contributed his writing, including Metroid: Hunters for the Nintendo DS(TM) and Marvel Trading Card Game for the PSP(R) (PlayStation(R) Portable) handheld system.

Image courtesy of Silver Bullet Comics

• Ninja Gaiden Sigma (PS3) Ninja Gaiden gets revamped for the PS3.
• Dead Reefs (PC)
  Arrrgh! Beware the pirate curse!
• Vampire Rain (X360)
  Blast those bloodsuckers!
• Chicken Shoot (WII, DS)
  Around the world poultry poaching.
• Seven Kingdoms: Conquest (PC)
  Lead your army of demons or humans to conquer the kingdom.
• Marvel Trading Card Game (PC)
  Collect them all!
• Steel Horizon (PSP)
  You sunk my battleship!
• Turn It Around (DS)
  Mini disc mini games
• Taito Legends 2 (PC)
  Get olde schoole with Taito

Yup, that's the Nintendo Wii in Marvel's Irredeemable Ant-Man. In issue #9, the comic shows a baddie breaking in, only to wait for the owner to get home and play the Wii. How's that for odd product placement. Brian Ashcraft

Wii Makes Comic Appearance [Wii Fanboy via Gay Gamer]

Stan's new superheroes—with colorful names like Doubleman, Thunder Rider, Nightbird and Blaze—will be developed for films, television, books and, of course, video games, reports the BBC.

While Stan's recent creations, like Stripperella, Lightman, and re-imagined versions of Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman for DC Comics, weren't exactly on-par popularity-wise with his previous work, we'll have to wait to see what he comes up with before mocking him for it.

Ah, I'm just teasing old Stan. If I can come up with my own name when I'm 85, I'll feel pretty damn proud. Michael McWhertor

Disney to unleash new film heroes [BBC]

Heads up, Halo-playing comic book geeks. Sure, last summer Marvel announced Halo: Uprising, but then the comic was quietly moved from an ongoing monthly to a four issue mini-series, reports 1Up. What happened? Marvel editor Ruwan Jayatilleke explains that's not really the case:

It is a monthly series of mini-series that will explore different aspects of the Halo mythos. It was always planned to be a series of contained stories that Bungie and Marvel felt would further entertain fans of the epic videogame franchise as well as provide a gateway for new fans to step in and be captivated.

That actually seems smarter on Marvel and Bungie's part: Keep it short and focused. Currently, Marvel's Brian Michael Bendis and Alex Maleev are hard at work on the first mini. Looking forward to it. Brian Ashcraft

Halo Comics [1Up]

It's a mixed bag of titles this week. We have a movie franchise game, a new RPG, the re-emergence of a classic, a comic card game, mechs, a high school sim and even the simple crossword puzzle. Not a whole lot that's of too much interest to me although I kind of want to see the Pirates game just because those character models are stunning. Anything here you'll be picking up? Flynn De Marco

• Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End (X360, PC, PS2, WII, PS3, DS, PSP) Set sail with Capt. Jack Sparrow and grab yourself some booty.
• Halo 2 (PC)
  The long awaited Vista version finally arrives
• Odin Sphere (PS2)
  Take a pretty RPG, throw in a little brawling and you've got Odin sphere.
• Dawn of Mana (PS2)
  The popular Mana series finally gets a follow up.
• Naruto: Ninja Council 3 (DS)
  More Naruto for your DS
• WarTech: Senko no Ronde (X360)
  Major mech madness.
• Brooktown High: Senior Year (PSP)
  Relive the horror of High School all over again.
• Death, Jr. and the Science Fair of Doom (DS)
  La Petite mort.
• Marvel Trading Card Game (DS)
  Think, Marvel:The Gathering.
• The New York Times Crosswords (DS)
  Why wait till Sunday?

Unfortunately, most of the video is boring footage of the host playing a child at Wii Tennis and going over facts most Kotakuites already know, but it is interesting to see that maybe the Nintendo is finally being regarded as a real company again. Now that some of the hype has gone down, I'm actually eager to see how the three consoles will compete in 2008 on a more even playing field. Kim Phu

Nintendo Co LTD (NTDOY) [Wallstrip]

Ms Marvel #15
When asked if he can track punctures in the fourth dimension, SHIELD operative Baines replies-
"Quicker than I can kill noobs in a game of Halo."

Avengers: The Initiative #2
Cloud 9 has never actually shot live targets before. So when War Machine hands her a pulse rifle he tells her-
"It's just like playing Halo. Just point and click."

Later, while actually fighting-
"C'mon Abby. Just point and click. It's just like Xbox. Just like — Holy — I just blew up a plane."

Marvel Loves Halo [Halo.Bungie.Org Forums via Wired Blogs]

I had to write this post because Fahey would probably go all Bruce Banner about this.

The Marvel Ultimate Alliance hero and villain packs are finally here, two weeks late. Major Nelson has the details.

You can either buy the packs separately, or in one good-versus-evil combo deal, no drink or fries included.

Name: Playable Hero/Villain Pack Combo Deal Price: 800 Points Availability: Not available in Austria, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Switzerland or Taiwan Dash Details: ESRB: T (TEEN) Mild Language, Violence] Play with 8 entirely new characters, 4 heroes and 4 villains. Free title update required to play. Do not download this pack if you have purchased Marvel:Ultimate Alliance Gold Edition, due out in May 2007, as the new playable characters are already included in that version of the game.

Name: Playable Hero Pack
Price: 500 Points
Availability: Not available in Austria, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Switzerland or Taiwan
Dash Details: [ESRB: T (TEEN) Mild Language, Violence] Play an entirely new team. Hulk, Cyclops, Nightcrawler and Hawkeye. Free title update required to play. Do not download this pack if you have purchased Marvel:Ultimate Alliance Gold Edition, due out in May 2007, as the new playable characters are already included in that version of the game.

Name: Playable Villain Pack
Price: 500 Points
Availability: Not available in Austria, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Switzerland or Taiwan
Dash Details:[ESRB: T (TEEN) Mild Language, Violence] Play an entirely new team. Doom, Venom, Sabertooth and Magneto. Free title update required to play. Do not download this pack if you have purchased Marvel:Ultimate Alliance Gold Edition, due out in May 2007, as the new playable characters are already included in that version of the game.

Hawkeye! Brian Crecente

Marvel Ultimate Alliance: Trailer and in game content [Major Nelson]

With a new more action oriented Hulk flick in the works that focuses less on introspection and familial strife, I suspect we'll have a smashin' good Hulk game on our hands next year. Sega's take on Iron Man sounds a lot like their previous effort on Astro Boy, which may not be such a good thing.

Hopefully Sega won't deliver to us a Superman 64 quality effort. And, hey, what about that Ant-Man license? Get that ASAP! Michael McWhertor

Q&A: Sega's new Marvel portfolio [Gamespot]

On second thought I'm only giving them credit for three, since one of them was dead when they found him. It's really easy to capture dead people, take it from me.

The Incredible Hulk will be getting a game based off of the upcoming cinematic apology in 2008, with Cap and the mighty Assguard Asgardian getting their movie and game twofers sometime in 2009.

Interesting to note that SEGA now has four out of six of the original Avengers in their stable (I know the Hulk left and Cap didn't show up till issue 4, but he was given honorary founding member status - don't try to outgeek me), and how hard can it be to secure the Ant Man/Giant Man and Wasp licenses? Hell, if SEGA doesn't act fast, I might pick them up myself to create a domestic abuse simulator. Michael Fahey

MARVEL ENTERTAINMENT AND SEGA PARTNER TO CREATE CAPTAIN AMERICA, THE INCREDIBLE HULK AND THOR VIDEO GAMES

Relationship between Companies Expands and Builds on Previously Announced Iron Man Game

New York, NY, April 18, 2007 - Marvel Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: MVL), SEGA Europe Ltd and SEGA of America, Inc. have expanded their relationship to include the rights to develop and distribute games inspired by Marvel's Hall-of-Fame franchises - Captain America, The Incredible Hulk and Thor. Through the exclusive, multi-year global licensing agreement, SEGA will create titles for console, handheld and PC platforms based upon both the classic comic books and planned feature film adaptations of these world-renowned Super Heroes. The deal follows Marvel and SEGA's announcement to create titles based on Super Hero favorite Iron Man, with both game and film slated to be released in Summer 2008.

"Video games are an ideal medium to showcase the appeal and excitement of our Super Hero franchises," said David Maisel, Chairman, Marvel Studios. "SEGA is one of the industry's most innovative game developers and we are thrilled to partner with them to bring Captain America, The Incredible Hulk and Thor to the video gaming arena. These franchises represent three of Marvel's most popular characters and lend themselves to captivating game play. We have already seen SEGA's passion for the Marvel Universe through the early development of the Iron Man video game, and we look forward to working closely with them over the next few years to maximize the potential of these franchises in the interactive entertainment space."

Under the expanded agreement, SEGA will develop a title to be based on Marvel Studios' highly-anticipated The Incredible Hulk feature film. The film will return the larger-than-life Super Hero to the roots of the long-running comic series and television show with an all-new action-packed storyline directed by Louis Leterrier (Transporter 2, Unleashed). The Incredible Hulk video game will be released in the same timeframe as the film. Games based on Captain America and Thor will follow, though the timing of those feature film projects, currently in development, has not yet been determined.

"We are excited to broaden our partnership with Marvel, a recognised leader and innovator in the entertainment industry," said Simon Jeffery, President and COO, SEGA of America. "As SEGA continues to create games that are built from the ground up to appeal to Western audiences it makes perfect sense to work with a powerhouse like Marvel. Captain America, The Incredible Hulk and Thor are icons that people are already familiar with and love, so our goal is to give gamers the ability to play out their fantasies by actually becoming these Super Heroes. Fans can now not only watch them in movies and read about them in comic books, but also literally control their actions through the video games we are creating. We look forward to bringing these icons to life like never before and putting the power in the hands of the fans."

Picking up from the conclusion of blockbuster video game Halo 2, the must-read issue reveals how the Master Chief, while onboard a hostile ship headed towards Earth, is battling against Covenant forces! Intertwined with Master Chief's interstellar one-man-war is the saga of a great American city's rebellion and downfall, two disparate lives' collision and shared fate, and the Covenant's hunt for an ancient relic of untold power and value. With hope dwindling and the fate of humanity hanging by a thread, is there any chance for a future?

The first issue will retail for $3.99 and will hit store shelves on July 18th. Michael Fahey

Halo: Uprising #1 [Marvel.com]

He posted on the official Xbox forums earlier today with a status on the MIA DLC. (He says it's en route ASAP, pending QA.)

This is Matthew Paul, the producer from Activision on Marvel: Ultimate Alliance. I wanted you to know that we are still wrapping up QA on the Marvel: Ultimate Alliance Heroes and Villains XBL DLC so it isn't out yet as some of you might have read. We are working hard to finalize the packs and will let you know a new release date shortly.

Thanks for your patience and support. The DLC will be well worth the wait once you get your hands on it.

Just hold tight, folks. You'll get your Hulk and Hawkeye fix probably sooner than you think. Michael McWhertor

Marvel Ultimate Alliance XBL DLC [Xbox Forums]

His claims of negligence and waste are going to get any arguments from me regarding both the movie and the video game that accompanied it. A complete waste of an excellent character.

Apparently there have been arguments between Gary, Roy Thomas, and artist Mike Ploog as to the creation of the character. Back in 2001, Friedrich was quoted as saying, "I threatened on more than one occasion that if Marvel gets in a position where they are gonna make a movie or make a lot of money off of it, I'm gonna sue them, and I probably will. ... It was my idea. It was always my idea from the first time we talked about it,." (from Wikipedia)

Odds are that if there is room for argument as to his ownership of the character, the lawsuit will end up going completely nowhere, which is kind of sad. Having your creation get turned into such trash is tantamount to discovering your daughter in a pornographic video. Michael Fahey

Ghost Rider Creator Sues Sony, Marvel, Take-Two & Others [GameDaily.BIZ]

Okay, that's pretty pathetic, but at the very least I have to play through with Dr. Doom, just to see how they handled him being the prime bad guy in the main game. And perhaps the Hulk, to see how they changed the Banner meeting in the second chapter. Oh, and Cyclops. Don't like the character, but really fond of red glowy things.

Hey, at least I'm not as bad as Crecente, who is excited about a pink and purple Green Arrow rip-off. Oh snap! Michael Fahey

New heroes include former PSP exclusive Hawkeye, along with Cyclops, Nightcrawler, and number-one fan request, the Incredible Hulk. Joining the heroes are four villains - Doctor Doom, Sabretooth, Venom, and Magneto. With the exception of Doom, all of these bad guys at one point played for the other side. Sabretooth in X-Factor, Magneto as the headmaster of the New Mutants, and even Venom showed his more heroic side in his own limited series. Doom just kicks ass. Each character will have different costumes, powers, dialog, and achievements.

Great power never comes without a price, however. The Hero Pack and Villain Pack will cost 500 points each, or 800 points for both. I'm a little on the fence as to the worth of the packs, but that hardly matters. I've bought the game itself four times, what's another $10 to a raving Marvel fanboy? Michael Fahey

ACTIVISION TO RELEASE NEW MARVEL: ULTIMATE ALLIANCE HEROES AND VILLAINS ON XBOX LIVE MARKETPLACE

Santa Monica, CA - March 23, 2007 - Expanding on the experience of controlling the world's largest army of Super Heroes on the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, Activision, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) announced today plans to release Marvel: Ultimate Alliance Heroes and Villains. The expansion packs feature eight new playable characters: The Incredible Hulk, Magneto, Hawkeye, Sabretooth, Doctor Doom, Cyclops, Nightcrawler and Venom, each complete with new signature powers, skins, dialog, conversations and achievement points. The download will be available in April via the Xbox Live Marketplace online gaming service.

"The signature gameplay of Marvel: Ultimate Alliance has made it a favorite among fans, as well as the best-selling Super Hero game on the Xbox 360 to-date," said Rob Kostich, vice president of global brand management, Activision, Inc. "By adding some of the biggest names in the Marvel Universe to the roster we're enabling Xbox 360 gamers to build a variety of all-new teams and enjoy the epic action in brand new ways."

Marvel: Ultimate Alliance is the award-winning action/RPG that allows players to create their Marvel dream team from the largest roster of Super Heroes ever in an epic quest that will determine the fate of Earth and the Marvel universe. With a total of over 140 popular Marvel characters and a playable cast of more than 20 Super Heroes, including Spider-Man, Wolverine, Blade and Captain America, gamers embark on a dangerous journey across exotic terrain and well-known comic book locations like Atlantis, the Shield Heli-Carrier and the Skrull home world in an attempt to defy Dr. Doom and the world's most notorious Super Villains.

The downloadable content will be released in three packs. The Hero Pack and Villain Pack will each be 500 Microsoft points ($6.25) and the Combined Hero and Villain Pack will be 800 Microsoft points ($10). Heroes and Villains gamer pic packs will also be available for 80 Microsoft points each ($1).

Marvel: Ultimate Alliance is currently available for the Xbox 360 for the suggested retail price of $59.99 and rated "T" (Teen - Mild Language, Violence) by the ESRB.

Ryan Penagos and Greg Draudt over at Marvel.com take an in-depth look at the history of Captain America in video games, from the primitive beginnings all the way up to the upcoming Marvel Trading Card Game for the DS, PSP, and PC. Michael Fahey

Captain America in Video Games: A Retrospective [Marvel.com]