DreamWorks Animation has inked a licensing deal with publisher THQ that spans properties like Kung Fu Panda and Madagascar, with three games set to launch over the next two years.
DreamWorks Animation has inked a multi-year, multi-game licensing deal with publisher THQ that spans several of its animated film properties, the companies announced today. The deal means THQ will publish games based on DreamWorks Animation's upcoming films including the Kung Fu Panda sequel, Kaboom of Doom, and Shrek spinoff Puss in Boots, plus the animated TV show The Penguins of Madagascar. The deal adds to the publisher's existing agreement for DreamWorks Animation's MegaMind (formerly MasterMind). "The three properties announced today, in addition to MegaMind, underscore our commitment to reinvigorating our portfolio of licensed games for kids and families with top global entertainment brands," says Doug Clemmer, EVP of kids, family and casual games divisions for THQ. The original Kung Fu Panda tie-in game was published by Activision, as were previous games based on Madagascar films. Activision will also keep the rights to publish a title based on the next Shrek film. The first game in the THQ-published series will be the Penguins of Madagascar title, which will launch sometime after Spring 2010. The other two film games release in 2011. DreamWorks Animation worldwide consumer products head Kerry Phelan comments: "We are pleased to expand our relationship with THQ and continue to be impressed by their focus on the kids and family videogame business." Licensed games have played a key role in THQ's title portfolio for some time, and the DreamWorks Animation deal should bolster the publisher as its Pixar license is set to run out next year. Similarly, game tie-ins are important to DreamWorks Animation's revenue; for example, the company reported a $24 million benefit to its second-quarter revenues from its Activision deal earlier this year.
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