Never heard of the A Song of Ice and Fire book series by George R. R. Martin or the Game of Thrones television series before? Don’t worry… I havent. However, ATLUS USA have just announced that they, in collaboration with Cyanide Studios and HBO will be releasing the game “Game of Thrones” for the XBox360, PlayStation 3 and PC in early 2012. This game is slated to be an Action RPG taking place in the same realm and storyline as the first book. Here is a brief blurb taken from the official press release that describes the game and storyline briefly:
In this 30-plus hour action RPG, players will enter the gritty and medieval fantasy world of Westeros. As one of two original characters with disparate motivations, both former soldiers of Robert’s Rebellion, players will forge alliances and wage battles as they play a pivotal role in the ongoing war for power of the Seven Kingdoms. Their journey will span numerous quests, during which they will interact with many characters and make key decisions that impact the realm.
Standing before the majesty and bitter isolation of the Wall or walking through the streets and alleys of King’s Landing, players will not simply pass by locations and characters integral to the series; they will explore and interact with them, meeting and learning about the people and history that defines them and their importance. Key decisions and major events will have meaningful impact on Westeros, allowing the player to witness how the game world evolves over time based on their actions or inactions. Moreover, “Game of Thrones” introduces an innovative “active slowdown tactical combat engine” in which combat mirrors the series’ thoughtful approach to war and politics: fighting slows but never stops entirely, forcing the player to make quick, pressured choices before their enemy strikes again.
Shinichi Suzuki, President and CEO of Index Digital Media, Inc. had this to say on the recent announcement:
The Game of Thrones television series and the A Song of Ice and Fire book series it is based on represent some of the most captivating, original medieval fantasy and drama ever created. Its amalgam of bitterly antagonistic rival houses, deeply nuanced characters, intricate political machinations, and breathtaking fantasy–all set within a richly storied world–offers unparalleled realism and raw emotion. We are honored to work with HBO, Cyanide Studios, and the great George R. R. Martin in bringing an exciting action RPG set in this beloved fantasy universe to fans and gamers in early 2012.
Also, James Costos, VP of HBO Global Licensing had this to say:
This is a wonderful way for fans to engage with the brand in an exciting and interactive way. ATLUS and Cyanide are leaders in developing world class games with broad accessibility so the partnership was an ideal fit for us.
