By Joe Keiser
National Geographic has announced that it has formed and launched National Geographic Games (NGG), a branch of the organization that will both publish and develop game content for all platforms.
According to the organization, the goal of National Geographic Games is to create a new way to reach consumers and families with a message of caring about the planet. The group will be led by vice-president of the Nataional Geographic Ventures extended platform group Paul Levine, with daily operations to be handled by former Take-Two VP of publishing Chris Mate.
As part of the launch of the division, NGG has partnered itself with Namco Bandai Games America and Sony Computer Entertainment, who will aid in the publishing and distribution efforts of NGG. Namco Bandai’s first published title under the agreements will be National Geographic: Panda, while SCE will publish National Geographic: Africa. NGG will self-publish a variety of titles as well, starting with National Geographic: King Herod.
"By leveraging National Geographic's leading family brand, core themes and franchises, and its unique content that drives our mission-forward strategy, NGG will create fun games that allow gamers of all ages to experience and explore their world through play," said Levine.
National Geographic Ventures COO Ted Prince added, "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."
