In addition to taking on DreamWorks Animation features starting in 2010, game maker THQ Inc. has entered into an exclusive licensing agreement with Marvel Ent. to create video games based on the upcoming animated television series Marvel Super Hero Squad. The first game produced under the multi-year agreement is scheduled for release in the fall of 2009.
Marvel hopes to expand its audience to included kids 4-10 with Marvel Super Hero Squad. The comedic show will feature caricatured versions of such iconic characters as Iron-Man, Hulk, Spider-Man, Captain America, Wolverine, Thor and The Fantastic Four. The caped crusaders will all live Super Hero City and take on Doctor Doom, Magneto, Iron Monger, Loki, the Abomination and countless other baddies from the Marvel universe.
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,’ says Simon Phillips, president of Marvel International and head of the worldwide animation and video games division. ‘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.’
Marvel Animation is currently in production on 26 half-hour episodes of the animated television series and plans to have it ready to air in 2009, though no broadcast partnership has bee inked yet. Starz’ Film Roman is handling production services. 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 this fall. Hasbro has come aboard as master toy partner.
