Ted Prince, CEO of National Graphic Ventures (NGV) today announced the formation of National Geographic Games (NGG), a division that'll develop and publish games across all major gaming platforms. NGG will be led by some of the industry's biggest names, including Paul Levine, senior VP of the extended platforms group, and Chris Mate, former Take2 and Bethesda exec.

Says Prince,

The launch of our games division furthers National Geographic Venture’s cross-platform strategy of creating and distributing unique consumer experiences and content on multiple platforms and devices. Paul’s strong background in cross-platform media, interactive entertainment and business building and development combined with Chris’ expertise in the video game industry and product development will ensure that National Geographic Games extends our mission globally and makes the National Geographic brand more meaningful to a broader audience.

NatGeo wants to bring that NatGeo feel into gaming, inspiring folks to care about the planet and reach a new generation of consumers and families. "NGG will create fun games that allow gamers of all ages to experience and explore their world through play," said Levine.

 

NGG will be working with Namco Bandai as well as Sony Computer Entertainment to distribute NatGeo-branded titles around the world on major gaming platforms.

Along with their launch comes "Herod's Lost Tomb," their first in-house produced game, which features content from the December 2008 issue of the NatGeo mag. The game will be available online, downloadable for PC, Mac, and iPhone.

Other upcoming titles from NGG include "National Geographic: Panda" and "National Geographic: Africa" for this November, and "Sudoku Traveler: China" in December. For 2009, they have Rain Forests, Greencity, and From the Bottom Up.

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