"THQ's Nickelodeon video game portfolio continues to dominate the kids video game space with nearly 17 million units of SpongeBob-branded games shipped worldwide. Last year's SpongeBob SquarePants: Lights, Camera, PANTS! and Nicktoons Unite! were two of the top video games for kids in 2005," said Kelly Flock, executive vice president of worldwide publishing, THQ. "This year's lineup includes games based upon some of the best loved Nickelodeon shows, as well as several exciting new television and theatrical properties. Nickelodeon fans and kids of all ages can expect to see new features, gameplay and adventures that are sure to provide hours of quality entertainment and loads of fun."
"We look forward to continuing our very successful alliance with THQ in the interactive entertainment market," said Stephen Youngwood, executive vice president, Nickelodeon Digital Media. "This year's lineup gives kids the opportunity to have fun with all their favorite Nickelodeon characters, as well as several of our newest shows and movies."
The 2006 THQ/Nickelodeon video game lineup includes:
* SpongeBob SquarePants: Creature from the Krusty Krab
In a unique and creative twist, SpongeBob SquarePants explores the peculiar world of Bikini Bottom as it transforms through a series of various unique visual styles. Continuing to reign as a top gaming and TV property, SpongeBob SquarePants: Creature from the Krusty Krab offers fans brand new gameplay mechanics through nine visually bizarre levels. Expected for PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, Nintendo GameCube®, Nintendo Revolution, Game Boy® Advance, Nintendo DSTM and Windows PC this fall.
* Avatar: The Last Airbender
Based on Nickelodeon's hottest new show, fans will play as Aang, Katara, Sokka and Haru as they grow into an unstoppable team utilizing the kung fu inspired bending arts through the Avatar universe. Players will explore the four Avatar nations in beautifully detailed environments and battle new enemies. Expected for PlayStation 2, Nintendo GameCube, Xbox® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, Nintendo Revolution, Game Boy Advance, PSPTM (PlayStation®Portable) system, Nintendo DS and Windows PC this fall.
* Nicktoons (working title)
The most popular Nickelodeon characters combine their unique weapons and powers to battle the newest, enemies threatening to destroy a mysterious Nicktoons paradise island. Players will assume the role of up to 10 playable characters from the most popular shows including "SpongeBob SquarePants," "Danny Phantom," "The Fairly OddParents" and "Jimmy Neutron." Expected for PlayStation 2, Nintendo GameCube, Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS this fall. This title has not yet been concept approved by Sony Computer Entertainment America.
* Barnyard
Enter the world of Nickelodeon's newest adventure and bring the Barnyard movie to life. Players will be able to interact with all of their favorite characters from the movie while trying to prove they have what it takes to be the biggest party animal of them all. The film is written, produced and directed by acclaimed comedy writer/producer Steve Oedekerk ("Bruce Almighty," "Ace Ventura," "The Nutty Professor," "Kung Pow") and Nickelodeon Movies, producers of the Oscar® nominated "Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius." The Barnyard video game is expected to be available on July 25 for the PlayStation 2, Nintendo GameCube, Game Boy Advance and Windows PC this fall.
* Unfabulous
Based on Nickelodeon's popular live-action TV show starring Emma Roberts, Unfabulous will allow players to assume the role of Addie Singer as she navigates the hectic halls of Rocky Road Middle School and avoids becoming popularity roadkill. Players will move through various levels based on events from the show and encounter Addie's friends, family and secret crushes. Expected for Game Boy Advance this fall.
* Danny Phantom Urban Jungle
Based on an upcoming on-air special of the same name, Danny Phantom goes on a brand new adventure. A new, powerful eco-ghost turns Amity Park into a real urban jungle, and fans must play as Danny Phantom to learn an all new freeze power to defeat his evil nemesis. Expected for Nintendo DS and Game Boy Advance this fall.
The 2006 lineup of THQ/Nickelodeon video games is being developed by THQ's Studio System, which includes 14 owned studios and more than 25 of the best independent development teams. THQ's Blue Tongue Entertainment is developing Barnyard and Nicktoons, while THQ's Studio Australia is developing Avatar: The Last Airbender. Independent studio, Blitz Games, is developing SpongeBob SquarePants: Creature from the Krusty Krab. In addition, hand held versions of THQ's entire 2006 Nickelodeon lineup are in development by a number of independent developers including Altron, Natsume, Halfbrick Studios, Wayforward and Tose.