Circle Studio to release NOW branded interactive DVD

Circle Studio has confirmed details of its deal with EMI, Universal Music and Virgin to produce a series of interactive DVD games based around the hugely successful Now That's What I Call Music brand.

The first DVD, titled Now That's What I Call a Music Quiz, will feature more than 1500 pop trivia questions based on music video clips, album covers, pop culture and photographs. It is compatible with all standard DVD players and requires only a remote control to play.

Players can choose from single or multiplayer modes along with three different game types, and the game features music from the past five decades. The tutorial commentary is provided by veteran DJ Mark Goodier.

"Interactive DVD is an ideal format for us to showcase the diversity and high quality of the 'NOW' brand," said Circle CEO Jeremy Heath-Smith.

"Our collaboration with Virgin/EMI and Universal will provide highly entertaining and sociable quiz games that can be enjoyed by the whole family."

EMI's Steve Pritchard added: "Circle is at the forefront of this exciting new technology and their treatment of the NOW brand looks set to provide music fans with a highly entertaining test of their pop knowledge."

"We have every confidence that our collaboration will result in chart-topping products."

Now That's What I Call a Music Quiz will hit the shops on December 5. Other forthcoming interactive DVD titles from Circle will include games based on brands such as FIFA, NBA and The Discovery Channel.

According to Circle, the interactive DVD format is one of the fastest growing categories in the toy sector, with sales up 600 per cent between 2003 and 2004. Analysts predict that the market will be worth USD 1 billion by 2007.