LEGO Goes MMO With LEGO Universe
By Ron on Sunday, June 10th, 2007 at 12:09 PM PST In Game Companies, Games
The LEGO Group has confirmed that an MMO based in the Lego universe is under development, and is expected to be on store shelves by Christmas of 2008. The new MMO is being developed by NetDevil. Most recently, NetDevil delivered Auto Assault, which received a less-than-enthusiastic response from players and reviewers.
LEGO Universe will build on the franchise’s success in the Star Wars Lego games developed by Traveler’s Tales. “LEGO Universe ties together all aspects of our community and line of products in an online environment that can be enjoyed by LEGO fans of all ages. By merging the online world of social interaction with the LEGO concept of play, LEGO Universe will provide our community with an entirely new way to experience LEGO and connect with other players in a fun and imaginative setting,” said Mark William Hansen, Director of Business Development, LEGO Universe.
Early reports are that the game will include character advancement, lots of community and social features, and that it will be a child safe MMO alternative for those younger gamers who aren’t quite ready to tackle hacking and slashing.
Ryan Seabury, NetDevil Lead Producer on LEGO Universe, said, “LEGO Universe is being built as a place where fans and community members can discover nearly unlimited play possibilities. Given the strength of the LEGO community, a large part of bringing the game to life will be working hand in hand with them to ensure that the core values of creativity, connectivity, and imagination are reflected in the end product.”
It should be interesting to see how far the Lego Star Wars titles can carry the brand into the gaming market. Is there really a market for a Lego MMO? Probably so. If nothing else, it’s kid-friendly, which is always a good thing. Here’s hoping that they let us build houses out of Lego blocks for our characters to live in.
