EA plot Endemol-backed social network game
Big plans afoot
UK business site GamesIndustry.biz today reveals that publisher EA are joining forces with 'Fame Academy' television company Endemol.
We're told to expect a "new digital entertainment concept that bridges the divide between traditional TV and videogames," with the new product set to be called Virtual Me, and will allow players to create in-game avatars and foster unique identities.
"Lifelike cyber-clones" are on the cards (scarily?), and a social networking utility a la PS3's 'Home' is the order of the day, as players interact in 'digital environments'.
Users (gamers? is this a 'game' in the traditional sense?) will also be able to join virtual renditions of Endemol shows such as Fame Academy, Deal or No Deal, Fear Factor and Operacion Triunfo. The new product will be supported online and through TV.
Virtual Me will debut alongside the new Big Brother in the summer, and VirtualMe.com will launch in coming months too.
EA International boss Gerhard Florin enthused: "With Virtual Me we are at the forefront of a new, hybrid form of entertainment that takes gaming beyond the console. Endemol is a great partner to help us bring together the best of TV and video games for an offering that can appeal to mass market audiences and change the face of entertainment."
