THQ unveils Space Marine reward scheme
Publisher syncs further with Games Workshop as new Dawn of War II expansion is also detailed
THQ's partnership with Games Workshop has taken another step today with the announcement that the publisher is to set out a reward scheme for its forthcoming shooter, Space Marine - while also announcing a new expansion for its hit RTS sequel Dawn of War II.
The loyalty programme, called "Honor Guard," will give gamers who sign up a series of exclusive opportunities around the game, including a set of free collectible items and early visibility on game assets.
The scheme launches with Gamescom this week, with THQ staff handing out an Ultramarine cloth patch - which will also be given out to attendees at both US and UK Games Workshop Games Day events later this month and next, respectively.
"Rewarding community for their role as opinion formers is important to us so we are delighted to be able to unveil the Honor Guard program," said Travis Plane, VP of global brand management at THQ.
Meanwhile the next follow-up to Relic-developed Dawn of War II has been named as Retribution, and will be released in the first three months of 2011.
The expansion will definitely feature Orks, with other races set to be announced over time - as well as a host of other new features and multi-player maps.
Jeff Lydell, Producer of Dawn of War II - Retribution commented: "We all love the Blood Ravens here at Relic Entertainment, but there are also a lot of fans of the other races and armies out there so we decided that Retribution should allow the player the freedom to experience the campaign from the perspective they select."
The announcements have been made as part of Gamescom, taking place this week in Cologne alongside GDC Europe. More news is available from our special event page.