THQ, SyFy Partner For Crossmedia, Starting With De Blob

In a new formal agreement, publisher THQ will partner up with science fiction television network Syfy to create new multi-platform properties. The first property on which the two will collaborate will be THQ's De Blob, the color-splashing, all-ages Wii title that earned the publisher critical acclaim in 2008, with "webisodes, television and consumer products" now in development. Alongside that, THQ plans to publish new games based on de Blob across multiple gaming platforms in its fiscal year ending March 2011. Syfy says it's getting ready to launch an "aggressive expansion" of its brand with Syfy Kids, aiming for children and family audiences, whereas in the past its programming has tended to target a demographic that skews more teen and adult. Syfy says its THQ deal is important to its goal of bringing "the wonder and excitement of imagine-based entertainment to a whole new generation of born digital consumers who expect their media on any platform, any place, any time." President Dave Howe says: "We want to build transmedia experiences that will excite and involve them and THQ is an extraordinary partner that shares our vision." For THQ's part, the publisher says it's pleased to be part of the foundation for Syfy's family-friendly endeavors -- THQ kids executive VP Doug Clemmer says: "We look forward to working closely with Syfy to introduce De Blob’s colorful world to a new audience of young adults." Notably, THQ stresses that "all of our original IP’s are designed to inspire movies, television, toys and other media." According to THQ Core Games EVP Danny Bilson, "By extending our brands to other media, we build huge awareness and momentum for our games."