Kuma\War announced

New developer Kuma Reality Games has today announced ambitious plans for episodic PC games in which players will be able to experience current real-life news stories for themselves. The first game, Kuma: War, will require players to pay a subscription fee and is currently scheduled for release in February 2004.

"Episodic gaming is the next logical step in the evolution of broadband entertainment and an exciting way for consumers to enjoy the new advancements in high-speed Internet services," said Jeff Samberg, cofounder and chairman, Kuma Reality Games. "With Kuma games, news junkies and PC game players alike will be able to experience their passion in a whole new dimension."

In Kuma: War, players will be briefed with real-world news reporting, satellite imagery, and intelligence from a team of military veterans. The game will feature both first-person tactical and vehicle-based gameplay, with missions being updated weekly to mirror unfolding events in the real world.

"We have developed an innovative new entertainment genre combining the best of reality television with high-quality action gaming," said Keith Halper, cofounder and CEO, Kuma Reality Games. "Consumers will be able to experience or relive real-world news events through a compelling gameplay experience. Kuma games are ideal for broadband distribution as they can be developed and distributed in a timely manner to coincide with real-world events."

Although Kuma: War is the only reality game announced by the company to date, Kuma plans to release others with themes such as sports, crimes, and celebrity. We'll bring you more information on Kuma's reality games as soon as it becomes available.