Microsoft Signs Game Property Licensing Agreement With 4Kids

Officials from Microsoft Game Studios have announced an 'alliance' with children’s entertainment company 4Kids Entertainment, which already handles popular video game related brands such as Yu-Gi-Oh! and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (though it recently relinquished its stewardship of Pokemon licensing to Pokemon USA itself). As part of the agreement, 4Kids will serve as the licensing agent for a forthcoming children’s entertainment property on a global basis for Microsoft Game Studios, encompassing all broadcast, home video, music and merchandise licensing rights. No clue was given as to what the property might be, although the only internal Microsoft studio with any significant experience of children’s titles is British studio Rare. The film rights to Xbox 360 game Kameo have already been sold to animation production company Maxmedia, suggesting that the property in question may either be for a brand new IP, or possibly related to the Banjo-Kazooie series, which Microsoft has repeatedly hinted may return. Alfred R. Kahn, chairman and CEO of 4Kids Entertainment, said: "We are thrilled to serve as the partner of choice and act as the vehicle for Microsoft to broaden its appeal among a more mainstream market focusing on children and family entertainment. We are confident our strong track record in developing integrated marketing and merchandising programs designed specifically for kids will enhance the future success of Microsoft Game Studios." Ed Ventura, director of Franchise Development at Microsoft said: "We are excited to explore the opportunities our collective efforts can create when we combine 4Kids's proven expertise in bringing engaging children's properties to life with Microsoft's leadership and knowledge of interactive entertainment."