Pixar Animation Studios and THQ Inc. announced an exclusive multi-property publishing agreement granting THQ the interactive rights to four upcoming Pixar animated feature films.
Under THQ's existing agreement with Pixar and Disney, which began in April 2002, THQ has the rights to publish videogames for FINDING NEMO and for the upcoming films, THE INCREDIBLES and CARS. The first title under that agreement, FINDING NEMO, was launched across multiple platforms in May 2003 and ranked as the top-selling children's game and the fifth best-selling game overall released in 2003, according to the NPD Group Inc.
The new agreement between Pixar and THQ will begin in 2006 with Pixar's first wholly-owned feature film and continue with the next three wholly-owned Pixar feature films. The worldwide deal extends four years after the release of each film and includes all current and future videogame console systems, PC/MAC, as well as handheld and wireless devices.
"We are thrilled to enter into another long-term publishing partnership with THQ," said Steve Jobs, Pixar's chairma/ceo. "THQ is one of the top interactive game makers, and the creative collaboration between our two companies will continue to bring our beloved characters to people around the world."
Pixar's president, Ed Catmull, added, "Our existing agreement with THQ has yielded top-selling games and numerous awards. We are excited to be able to build on the strength of this successful relationship."
"This agreement is one of the most significant partnerships in the history of the industry, a testament to Pixar's creative power and our tremendous success in the interactive space over the years," said Brian Farrell, president/ceo, THQ. "Extending our relationship is a huge win for THQ as we look ahead to a partnership that now encompasses not only THE INCREDIBLES and CARS, but also the first four wholly-owned Pixar theatrical releases."
Pixar Animation Studios (www.pixar.com) is the trailblazing computer animation studio behind hit film such as TOY STORY, A BUG'S LIFE, TOY STORY 2 and MONSTERS, INC.
THQ Inc. is a leading independent publisher of interactive entertainment software worldwide. The company develops its products for all popular game systems including PlayStation 2, Xbox, Nintendo GameCube and Game Boy Advance, personal computers and wireless devices. The THQ Website is located at www.thq.com.
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
Creator of Rick's Flicks Picks
