Firewatch headed for the big screen
Campo Santo partners with Good Universe for game-and-film projects; adaptation of developer's hit indie game up first
The track record of AAA games making the jump to movies is spotty at best, but perhaps games built more on narrative than action and production values will prove better suited to the transition. We may find out soon, as The Hollywood Reporter has broken the news that Campo Santo has struck a deal with production company Good Universe to bring the developer's indie hit Firewatch to film.
The game, which puts players in the shoes of a newly recruited park ranger investigating a number of curious happenings in the wilderness, has sold more than 1 million copies since its launch in February. Campo Santo co-founder Sean Vanaman said the film company shared the developers' narrative sensibilities.
"When we met Good Universe we were floored by how they recognize, cultivate and produce incredible stories," Vanaman said. "It's rare you meet another group that shares so many of your values and makes the process of creating things even more exciting. We can't wait to see what we make together."
Firewatch is Campo Santo's first and only game to date. Founded in 2012, Good Universe has produced a number of feature films to date, including the Spike Lee remake of Old Boy and a handful of Seth Rogen comedies, including the two Neighbors movies.
The Firewatch film will be just the first project for the partnership. The two companies are hoping to create a pipeline for future projects spanning games and film.