Dreamcatcher and JoWooD have today confirmed plans to publish a game originally conceived as a fan project, revealing that Painkiller: Overdose will be released on Windows PCs come October 2007. The new game, a re-conceiving of the original Painkiller, promises to maintain the frenetic high-energy of the original hit.

Recognising what began as a simple fan project at Mindware Studios, the publishers will now offer technological and asset support, as well as bankrolling the 'proper' release of this title.

"We are thrilled to be endorsing this project and look forward to working closely with Mindware Studios," enthused Albert Seidl, President and CEO for the JoWooD Group. "The excitement from Painkiller fans around the world is mounting and we will be happy to deliver what they’ve been waiting for!"

The game is billed as a prequel to the forthcoming Painkiller sequel, and will introduce new characters, examining the repercussions of Lucifer's destruction in the original game. 16 new levels are included, as are six original weapons, new monsters, levels, et al. Multiplayer compatibility with the original is assured. More soon.

By Luke Guttridge