There was a time when Michael Jackson had a strong presence in the gaming world... way back when. There were some classic titles from Sega featuring his likeness that still make top-XX lists to this day. Ubisoft announced during their press conference that they have obtained the licensing rights to bring Michael Jackson back to gaming.
So, Ubisoft has the license... now what are they going to do with it? Good question as that is what everyone seems to be asking. According to the official press release from Ubisoft (available after the jump), the new game is best described as an interactive performance game. You and your friends will be able to re-enact many of the MJ’s iconic performance throughout his career. While the gameplay details are non-existent, I would bet on a combination of DDR meets Rock Band vocals. I guess only time will tell so we will have to wait until they actually show off the game.
Ubisoft's Michael Jackson game will be available this fall for the 360, PS3, Wii, and DS. You can check out Ubisoft’s celebration of the licensing reveal from their E3 press conference below:
Publisher Partners with The Estate of Michael Jackson for Ultimate Performance Experience
Los Angeles – June 14, 2010 – Today, Ubisoft® announced the development of an interactive performance-based video game, inspired by the legendary King of Pop, Michael Jackson. The game is family entertainment at its best and will provide an interactive experience that enables players to step into the shoes of Michael Jackson himself and re-live his most iconic performances through their own singing and dancing. The upcoming game will include the most famous tracks from Michael Jackson's extensive catalogue such as Beat It and Billie Jean, as well as an array of his awe-inspiring dance moves for players to learn and emulate within the game. Additionally, fans will be able to sing along and test their vocal skills while immersed in the performance.
Michael Jackson, one of the most widely beloved entertainers and the most popular global icons of all time, leaves an indelible imprint on popular music and culture. During his extraordinary career Jackson sold an estimated 750 million records worldwide, released 13 No.1 singles and became one of a handful of artists to be inducted twice into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He won 13 Grammy Awards and received the American Music Award's Artist of the Century Award. His album "Thriller" is the world's best-selling album of all time with more than 110 million copies sold.
"Michael always pushed every limit when it came to technology to give his fans unforgettable entertainment experiences, whether it involved his videos, his recordings or his concerts. Now, with this interactive product, we have the chance to bring Michael, the artist, into households around the world in a perfect match of Michael's artistry and the family entertainment which he always highly valued. Kids, their parents, extended family members and friends will now have an opportunity to all come together and experience Michael's music and dance in an innovative, exciting and fun way," said John Branca, co-executor for The Estate of Michael Jackson.
Added Michael Jackson Estate Co-Executor John McClain: "No artist can energize a dance floor in the spirit of fun like Michael Jackson. His God-given gifts for music and dance are something new generations of fans will appreciate even more. This game is a natural extension of what he would be doing today to raise his artistry to even greater heights for his fans of all generations. It is a game that the entire family can experience and enjoy together and this is something that would please Michael tremendously."
"We're delighted to have the opportunity to develop a game based on the songs and moves of one of the world's most incredible performers of all time," said Yves Guillemot, chief executive officer at Ubisoft. "We expect the game to bring Michael Jackson fans, families and friends together with the energetic song and dance of The King of Pop."
The game will be available for "Project Natal" for Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation®3 system with PlayStation®Move support, PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system, Nintendo's Wii&tm; system and Nintendo DS&tm; handheld system, for holiday 2010.
About Ubisoft
Ubisoft is a leading producer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment products worldwide and has grown considerably through a strong and diversified line-up of products and partnerships. Ubisoft has offices in 26 countries and has sales in more than 55 countries around the globe. It is committed to delivering high-quality, cutting-edge video game titles to consumers. For the 2009-10 fiscal year Ubisoft generated sales of € 871 million. To learn more, please visit www.ubisoftgroup.com.
