D3Publisher signs new agreement with DreamWorks

D3Publisher Europe MD David Hope has told GamesIndustry.biz that the company's new publishing agreement with DreamWorks is key to its continuing European expansion plans.

D3Publisher will publish Flushed Away on PS2, GameCube, Nintendo DS and Game Boy Advance in quarter 4 2006, to coincide with the release of the animated feature film of the same name.

"Flushed Away will be a key title for us this year after the expansion to Europe," said Hope.

"Our adaptation of the film gives us a great platform to ensure we cement our position Europe wide"

The movie is being produced by DreamWorks Animation together with Aardman Features and the team behind hit film Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit. It follows the adventure of a group of rodents who inhabit the streets of London and the sewers below, and must face off with villains Toad and Le Frog.

The Flushed Away videogame will be a story-driven third person action adventure featuring new characters and environments not seen in the game. Vicious Cycle will develop the PS2 and GameCube titles, while Altron and ART will produce the handheld versions.

âThis agreement with DreamWorks Animation SKG is a significant milestone for D3Publisher of America and for our new operation, D3P Europe,â said Careen Yapp, vice president of licensing and business development for D3PA.

"Our blueprint for success has always included both original intellectual properties, as well as licensed titles from top entertainment companies. Flushed Away will be a key title for us in 2006 and we are very pleased to be working with the DreamWorks Animation.â