Originally revealed on 60 Minutes not long ago, 505 Games has announced its collaboration with Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps on new videogame “projects.”
Yes, that’s plural as in there will be more than one. 505 hasn’t revealed specifics, only to say that it will be available on next-generation consoles and the iPhone.
“505 Games is proud to partner with Michael Phelps to create innovative new game play experiences that celebrate active lifestyles, the spirit of competition and the inspirational dream of becoming a champion,” said Adam Kline, president of 505 Games U.S.
Again, no one has specifically come out and said this would be a swimming game. We assume it will be, but a sim-Phelps game where he eats breakfasts, trains, poops, and brings home Vegas cocktail waitresses for Thanksgiving sounds just as fun.
The title “may” feature some of his Olympic teammates, which is code for “we’re trying to negotiate the dollars and cents of that.” And speaking of which, a portion of the sales will go to the Michael Phelps Foundation, which is a swimming foundation designed to help kids get their feet wet for recreation and competitive purposes.
The yet-untitled game is slated for a Spring 2010 release.
MICHAEL PHELPS AND 505 GAMES TO COLLABORATE ON NEW VIDEOGAME PROJECTS
Multiple Titles to be Developed by 505 Games’ New U.S. Operations for Distribution Worldwide
LOS ANGELES, Calif. (Dec. 15, 2008) — Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all time, and global videogame publisher, 505 Games, announced today a new partnership to develop next generation console and iPhone videogames. The first title is scheduled to release in spring 2010 and will be developed by 505 Games’ newly formed U.S. operations in Los Angeles. 505 Games also has European offices in the UK, and distribution partners around the world.
“505 Games is proud to partner with Michael Phelps to create innovative new game play experiences that celebrate active lifestyles, the spirit of competition and the inspirational dream of becoming a champion,” said Adam Kline, president of 505 Games U.S. “Through swimming, Michael has become an international superstar and role model for people of all ages. With 505 Games’ global reach, we look forward to leveraging the powerful digital entertainment medium to bring Michael’s passion for sports and competition to new audiences around the world.”
505 Games and Phelps are currently in the development stages for the first-of-its-kind videogame that may also include some of his teammates. In addition, 505 Games will donate a portion of the videogame proceeds to the Michael Phelps Foundation.
“I am really excited to partner with 505 Games and work with them to develop a game that is reflective of my personality, lifestyle and competitive nature,” said Phelps. “I believe this will be a tremendous opportunity to help continue my quest to raise the profile for the sport of swimming.”
Phelps, who is represented by Octagon, was recently profiled by CBS News’ “60 Minutes”, named Sports Illustrated’s “Sportsman of the Year” and released his third book entitled NO LIMITS: The Will to Succeed.
