EA Signs Up The Simpsons For Next-Generation (News)

GamePro staff, GamePro Australia

03/11/2005 14:53:49

Electronic Arts, Twentieth Century Fox Television and Gracie Films have announced a long-term deal that grants EA development rights to multiple video game titles based on the hit TV series The Simpsons. Working closely with the television studio's Licensing and Merchandising division, Gracie Films and The Simpsons writers, EA will create original 'Simpsons' game content for next generation video game systems. This groundbreaking deal between Fox and EA is the first development deal between these two entities. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The first game of the multi-game deal will be launched on next generation systems; however no launch date has been announced. "This is a great opportunity for our talented development team to collaborate with the brilliant minds of The Simpsons to bring original Simpsons material to video game fans," said Nick Earl, Vice President and General Manager, EA Redwood Shores Studio. "This is something EA's been interested in for years and now game development and technology is at a place where The Simpsons characters and world will really come alive in these games."

"The Simpsons is our crown jewel and with every additional episode is creating a legacy of creativity and success unmatched in this industry," commented Twentieth Century Fox President Gary Newman. "Its huge appeal among teens and young adults coupled with its seemingly limitless universe of memorable characters makes it a natural fit for video gaming, and we believe Electronic Arts is exactly the right creative partner to bring Springfield to life in this medium."

Executive Producer of The Simpsons, James L. Brooks, speaking on behalf of Gracie Films, stated, "I think this is a great opportunity for us, primarily because it brings with it the possibility of free EA games."

Game development will be done at EA's Redwood Shores Studio, the studio currently responsible for From Russia With Love, Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 06, The Godfather and The Sims games.