Not too long ago, you used to be able to walk into any video games retailer and choose from any number of video games based on a film or television series. Today, those titles are scarce, as both the industry and demand for direct-tie-ins to those properties have entered into a perpetual state of fluctuation. There have absolutely been some blockbuster titles released for iconic characters and series such as Spider-Man, South Park, and The Chronicles of Riddick, though I stand firm on the opinion that one should tread carefully when in regard to video games based on TV or film. I'm just saying, I've played more crap than I have quality in my 30+ years as a hardcore gamer.
Today, it's been announced that a new video game based on James Cameron's AVATAR is coming by way of a partnership between Ubisoft, Lightstorm Entertainment, and Fox Interactive. Developing the game will be Massive, the team who released Tom Clancy's The Division – an action-shooter with RPG elements that got off to a rocky start but has since become a hit thanks to a series of DLC content that helped flesh out the games world and loot-based mechanics. The new AVATAR game will employ the use of Massive's Snowdrop engine, a system that helped make games like The Division and South Park: The Fractured But Whole a reality.
In expressing his enthusiasm about the project, filmmaker James Cameron had this to say, "What impressed me about Massive were the group’s passion for this project, and the power of its Snowdrop engine. With the power of [Snowdrop], and the team’s passion and obsessive focus on detail, we know they’re the right group to bring the beauty and danger of Pandora to life." In terms of activities and game play, the new AVATAR game is expected to expand upon the film's unique universe, and give players the opportunity to educate themselves about the world of Pandora and its many inhabitants.
What's also worth noting is that if you have any experience working in the video game industry, Massive is currently looking to hire developers who are "interested" in a list of open positions related to the project. You can use the link provided here to apply.
As of the moment, there are a total of four AVATAR sequels planned for release over the next several years, which will all be filmed in unison, with the expected release dates being December 2018 for the first of the bunch. After that, a new AVATAR will will hit in the years 2020, 2022, and 2023.
The new AVATAR game will launch on multiple platforms including PC and select console-based systems.