Scandinavias leading computer and video game developer, UDS (Unique Development Studios), has gained the computer gaming rights to Foxs hit series FUTURAMA. The three-year deal grants UDS the right to co-publish with Fox Interactive FUTURAMA games for all gaming platforms. Fox Interactive will publish the games in North America, while UDS will handle the rest of the world. The first game is scheduled for release in the first half of 2002. This co-production deal for such a well-known TV series marks a first for European gaming companies. "We are very pleased to be able to acquire co-publishing rights to such a strong brand as FUTURAMA by Fox, and we believe that the resulting games will be very successful all over the world," said Thomas Lofblad, managing director of UDS. "Our new strategy to own the rights to various computer games aimed at a global mass market gives us a potential to dramatically increase revenue streams in the future." Steve Bersch, president of Fox Interactive said, "FUTURAMA is a great show, which lends itself very well to making fun, interactive game environments. We are pleased to be collaborating with UDS on the development of the FUTURAMA game, and by working closely with the series creator [Matt Groening], we hope to expand the appeal of the show to gamers around the world."