Take-Two Buys Civilisation News

Take-Two has today announced that it has bought certain rights to the hugely successful Civilisation franchise, as well as securing a long-term with its developer, FIRAXIS. The company has also confirmed that its new publishing label, 2K Games will be publishing Civilisation IV at the end of 2005.

Not much is known about Civ IV yet, although the statement does confirm that it,� is a bold step forward for the franchise, with spectacular new 3D graphics and all-new single and multiplayer content. Civilization IV will also set a new standard for user-modification, allowing gamers to create their own add-ons using the standard Python and XML scripting languages.�

Confirming the deal, Susan Lewis, Vice President of Publishing for 2K Games said, â??The Civilization name brings with it an expectation of quality from millions of fans around the worldâ?¦It is a pleasure to be working with a company like FIRAXIS that has developers who have proven with every successive title that they are masters of this genre."

"We are extremely pleased to be partnering with 2K Games on a new journey into the evolving world of Civilization," said Jeff Briggs, Founder, President and CEO of FIRAXIS Games. "2K Games' emergence as a publisher dedicated to producing high-quality, genre-defining games ensures that Civilization IV and FIRAXIS titles will continue to push the creative envelope and reach bigger audiences than ever before."

"In Civilization, we've created a world with endless possibilities that has been embraced by game players all over the globe," said Sid Meier, Director of Creative Development at FIRAXIS Games. "With the upcoming addition of Civilization IV, our core fans and newcomers alike will enter a world of unparalleled scope and detail."

Weâ??ll have more details on Civilisation IV shortlyâ?¦