THQ to develop Nintendo IP
According to a recent Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) filing, Publisher/Developer THQ has entered into a licensing agreement with Nintendo to produce games based upon Nintendo’s intellectual properties. According to GameIndustry.biz, “the form indicates that THQ has been granted ‘the right to use certain of Nintendo’s intellectual property to develop, have developed, have manufactured, advertise, market and sell video game software for play on Wii until October 13, 2009 in all countries within the Western Hemisphere.’”
What this means exactly is uncertain. But the ambiguity is tantalizing. Could a “reboot” ala Metroid Prime be imminent for a beloved Nintendo franchise? With that said, this news could turn out to be something as simple as the outsourcing of a series, like when Nintendo tapped Sega to develop F-Zero GX.
[Update: Sadly, it turns out this SEC filing is actually rather typical. Apparently every third party publisher signs this type of agreement. While this doesn't rule out Nintendo characters appearing in THQ games or THQ actually developing a new Nintendo property, this is by no means a confirmation of anything.]
Anybody have any ideas?
It’s possible that THQ wants to use some Nintendo characters in some of their games.. Not sure which games would work. I can’t imagine Mario will be featured in the next SpongeBob game.