Sega, Planet Moon Reveal After Burner Revival

Months after announcing a secret project between Sega of America and Planet Moon Studios (Giants, Armed & Dangerous) to revive one of Sega's classic franchises, Sega today announced that the fruits of the collaboration would bring a new chapter of the After Burner franchise to the PSP. After Burner: Black Falcon, as the new portable version will be called, promises an "in-depth storyline" and "an assortment of hi-tech licensed planes and explosive weapons," giving players a handheld version of the arcade-style aerial dogfighting that has typified the franchise since its arcade inception nearly two decades ago. "As huge fans of the original After Burner, we are delighted to re-imagine this classic arcade franchise," said Bob Stevenson, CEO, Planet Moon Studios. "Building After Burner: Black Falcon from the ground-up enables us to craft the game with PSP features in mind with all-new multiplayer modes, customisable jets and over-the-top gameplay. Most importantly, it's approximately 9000% more portable than the original arcade cabinet." Keen to revive a number of its former franchises through these strategic partnerships, Sega has also announced a collaboration with Totally Games on another upcoming Sega franchise yet to be officially announced, but rumored to be Alien Syndrome. The company is also preparing the 2007 release of Golden Axe, developed by the Sega-owned development studio Secret Level. "After Burner: Black Falcon is a good example of updating one of the all time SEGA classics for the current generation of gamers," commented Matt Woodley, Creative Director, SEGA Europe, Ltd. "Its fast paced, challenging gameplay, combined with amazing visuals and superb multiplayer options make it a great addition to the PSP."