New Broken Sword game announced

UK developer Revolution Software has revealed that it has begun development of Broken Sword: The Sleeping Dragon. This third installment of the Broken Sword series will move away from the point-and-click style of the previous games, although it will still be in the adventure genre. However, the game will have a new look and gameplay style, according to the developers.

"We have a clear and exciting vision for the next generation of adventure games," Charles Cecil, managing director of Revolution Software, said. "The advance in technology finally allows us to create a visually stunning game with a strong atmosphere and plot that exploits the opportunities of a full 3D world. Written very much as a dark crime thriller, with the look and feel of a Hollywood action film, the game will place new demands on players as they explore a new world full of exotic locations. Broken Sword: The Sleeping Dragon will require a mix of skills in order to succeed--including stealth, combat, and puzzle solving--making this truly the next generation of adventure game. Along the way, gamers will meet some old friends and some new adversaries, all the while battling against an enemy and threat based upon present-day myths--in short, the kind of rich plot that has ensured the global popularity of the previous two games."

Revolution Software has completed the preliminary design and a provisional script for the game. George Stobbart and Nico, the two primary figures from the original games, will return in this latest version, but they will have matured in appearance and character. The first screenshots from the game will be released in April. Broken Sword: The Sleeping Dragon will be released in Q4 2002.