LucasArts Adds Star Wars Cast To Namco-Bandai's Soulcalibur IV

Namco-Bandai Games America and LucasArts have partnered to bring Star Wars characters into Namco-Bandai's upcoming Soulcalibur IV fighting title, with Darth Vader appearing as a guest character in the PlayStation 3 version, while Jedi Master Yoda will be available for the Xbox 360 edition of the game. Soulcalibur IV, in development by Project Soul (Soul Blade, Soulcalibur I-III) and slated for a Summer 2008 release, continues the series' conflict between the spirit sword, Soul Calibur, and the cursed Soul Edge. The title features hi-definition graphics, and an expanded customization mode that allows players to personalize characters and play both original and custom creations in online multiplayer modes. LucasArts' director of marketing Kevin Kurtz promises that Darth Vader and Yoda will be "formidable opponents in the game." Namco-Bandai executive VP and COO Makoto Iwai commented, "It is quite rare that two publishers of this caliber are able to collaborate on this level to create a top notch entertainment experience for next-generation platforms. In the entertainment industry, LucasArts possesses some of the most recognizable characters and franchises in the world. We’re thrilled to integrate their historic characters into one of our most treasured brands."