The two companies also announced they will collaborate on the upcoming comic series, ``The Call.'' Based on the adventures of real-life heroes in New York City, ``The Call'' may feature many of the most popular characters in the Marvel Universe such as ``Spider-Man'' and the ``X-Men.'' ``The Call'' is scheduled to make its comic debut in fall of 2003 followed by an interactive debut in spring of 2004.
``Working with Marvel not only on rich properties like 'The Punisher' but in jointly creating a brand-new property like 'The Call' is a huge win for THQ as we continue to execute on our strategy of bringing the best gaming content to market,'' stated Germaine Gioia, vice president, licensing, THQ. ``THQ looks forward to tapping into the essence of these characters from their comic book roots and creating true digital experiences that reflect Marvel's future plans for the franchises.''
``Marvel is looking forward to a true partnership,'' said Bill Jemas, President and COO, Marvel Enterprises, Inc. ``THQ's top developers will work closely with Marvel's best creators to produce the most exciting games on the market. We are especially excited about jointly developing 'The Call' -- an all-new property about real-world heroism.''
Jemas added, ``The interactive category has become a cornerstone of property development, and we feel very fortunate to be working with a company that knows how to build a property and bring it to the mass audience.''
``This deal has come together during an especially exciting time for these Marvel brands,'' stated Russ Brown, Executive Vice President, Marvel Enterprises, Inc. ``Rolling Stone just declared 'Nick Fury' the 'certified cool' comic book of 2001, 'The Punisher' has been outselling 'Batman' ever since its 2000 re-launch and, based on initial orders from comic shops, 'Captain America' will be the top-selling comic in America this May -- right in the middle of the 'Spider-Man' movie hype.''
The first game under the new agreement is ``The Punisher'' (working title) scheduled for release holiday 2003. For more information check THQ website.