Aspyr Media signs distribution agreement with THQ

Aspyr Media has announced a new partnership with THQ for the PAL distribution of acclaimed Xbox software title, Stubbs the Zombie: Rebel without a Pulse.

The deal will see THQ taking control of distribution in all territories outside North American and Japan on Microsoft's Xbox console. The company will also distribute the title on PC, in all territories excluding North America, Japan, Russia, Slovenia, Poland, Hungary and the Czech Republic.

THQ UK's senior vice president, Ian Curran, said: "We're excited to be able to bring this unique and innovative title to PAL territories. Working with Aspyr gives us a great opportunity to grow our global business and strengthen our position as a leading videogame publisher."

Created by Bungie Studios veterans utilising an enhanced version of Halo's graphical engine with improved pixel shaders, cinematic effects and an updated AI system, Stubbs the Zombie has already obtained substantial critical acclaim upon its release in North America.

Players control the rebel without a pulse in a third person adventure as he destroys an entire city; munching on human brains to 'recruit' an un-dead army who will mindlessly follow his instruction. Game features include human possession, eating brains to recruit new zombies, and a plethora of comedic zombie offensive manoeuvres, such as explosive gut grenades, zombie sputum, a head that doubles as a bowling ball and potent flatulence attacks.

Vip Patel, vice president, Aspyr Europe commented: "THQ's expertise in managing key brands makes them an excellent partner. We're confident that their team will do a great job getting Stubbs the Zombie into the hands of eagerly awaiting fans."

Stubbs the Zombie has been developed by Wideload Games, a company founded in 2003 by Alexander Seropian. Seropian originally founded Bungie Studios, and the small, independent studio employs a number of ex-Bungie animators, designers, artists and programmers dedicated to providing innovative titles independently created, with mass-market appeal.