Marvel Universe Online Unveiled
Barcelona, Spain-At X06, Microsoft Game Studios announced further details around its eagerly awaited project based on the Marvel universe of Super Heroes. Microsoft and Marvel Entertainment confirmed that Cryptic Studios has been named the developer of Marvel Universe Online, the highly anticipated massively multiplayer online (MMO) video game exclusive to Xbox 360 and Windows Vista®.
"The vision behind the alliance of Microsoft Game Studios, Cryptic Studios and Marvel is to expand the MMO genre and create an epic gaming experience exclusively for Xbox 360 and Windows Vista gamers to experience together online," said Frank Pape, senior director of business development, Microsoft Game Studios. "Cryptic Studios is widely respected for their established track record of innovation and understanding of the MMO space, and they are a perfect fit for the creation of the best possible experience in Marvel Universe Online."
"As an independent developer, Cryptic Studios has the freedom to make games and forge partnerships that we are truly passionate about," said Michael Lewis, president of Cryptic Studios. "Cryptic Studios and Microsoft share a common vision for online gaming and commitment to quality titles. Together we will create a new exciting game that captures the uniqueness of the Marvel IP."
Marvel Fan Base
David Maisel, executive vice president, Marvel Entertainment added, "The huge Marvel fan base has been eagerly awaiting new information on our massive multiplayer online game. We are proud to have a premiere developer such as Cryptic Studios who has had such incredible success in the online gaming world developing this game. Marvel, Microsoft, and Cryptic are committed to creating the definitive interactive Marvel universe experience via this massive multiplayer online game."
Cryptic Studios is known as the developer of the renowned MMO titles City of Heroes and City of Villians, and bring a history of excellence in MMO design and best-of-breed community support to the development of Marvel Universe Online. Marvel Universe Online will unite gamers in a cross-platform experience, allowing for Xbox 360 and Windows Vista users to play alongside one another.
Marvel's repertoire of superheroes have evolved from the pages of comic books to become driving forces in entertainment, from the silver screen to television shows and best-selling video games, including Spider-Man, X-Men, and "The Hulk" franchises. As part of an MMO gaming experience, Marvel Universe Online players will be able to interact simultaneously in a truly unique atmosphere featuring all their favorite Marvel characters, creatures and villains.
Marvel Entertainment
Marvel Entertainment, Inc. is a leading global character-based entertainment company that has developed and owns a library of more than 5,000 characters, which have entertained generations around the world for over 60 years. Marvel's operations are focused in entertainment and consumer product licensing and comic book publishing. Marvel Studios supports the development of feature films, DVD/video products and TV series. Marvel's creative team also supports the creation of video games and toy lines based on its characters as well as for a broad and growing range of consumer products and services including apparel, collectibles, foods and promotions. Marvel's comic book division is a leading publisher in the global marketplace while also serving as an invaluable source of intellectual property. Marvel's Toy Biz division is a recognized creative force and leader in toy design, sales and marketing, developing and overseeing both licensee and in-house toy lines. For additional information, visit http://www.marvel.com.
Cryptic Studios
Cryptic Studios, Inc., located in Los Gatos, California, was established in July of 2000 and is an independent employee-owned developer of massively multiplayer online games for the PC and next generation consoles. Cryptic's first game, City of Heroes, launched in April 2004 to popular acclaim, garnering the top accolades in the industry, from Best of Show at E3 to multiple Game of the Year awards. The game takes place in a virtual world where thousands of people play simultaneously, take on the role of super-powered heroes, fight villains and help create a dynamic story in a visually-stunning, 3-D graphical world.