THQ today confirmed it's picking up
50 Cent: Blood on the Sand, confirming widespread speculation that had pegged the move a near-certainty. The title is slated to launch "early 2009," according to the company.
The Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 title is the second game developed around the famous rapper's persona, and found itself orphaned from previous publisher Sierra amid parent Vivendi's merger with Activision.
Developed by Swordfish Studios and produced by Bionic Woman producer Kamran Pasha,
Blood on the Sand will feature not only the titular performer's voice and likeness, but those of G-Unit's Lloyd Banks, Tony Yayo and DJ Whoo Kid, adding unreleased music from the artists exclusive to the game.
The game casts players as one of the hip-hop stars battling to protect 50 Cent’s assets and to collect payment from a crooked overlord. It promises combat gameplay with multiplayer co-op, in addition to driving and aerial combat.
"50 Cent is a cultural icon and one of the biggest names in hip hop," says THQ global brand management VP Brad Carraway. "THQ is thrilled to be working with him on this exciting new title. Combining intense single player combat, drop-in and drop-out online co-op and never-before-released music tracks makes this the ultimate package for gamers and hip hop fans alike."
