The SpongeBob Squarepants Movie E3 2004 Preshow First Look

As far as cartoons go, SpongeBob Squarepants is about as popular as it gets. The Nickelodeon show claims to be the most watched animated program in the history of kids' television, clocking an average of 55 million viewers a month. So, obviously, the SpongeBob brand is ripe for some extension. Nickelodeon's got a movie in the works, and THQ is working on a game based on that movie.

As the story goes, King Neptune's crown has been stolen, and in the process, the culprit has framed Mr. Krabs. You will be able to play as both SpongeBob and his dopey friend, Patrick. Each will have a unique set of attacks. The object of the game is to make your way through six large environments as you head for Shell City to recover the crown so that you can clear Mr. Krabs' name. You'll earn manliness points along the way, and these are cashed in for more-powerful attacks, such as a cartwheel attack, the macho bash, and the electric-guided sonic-wave guitar. The game will also contain some driving sequences, putting you behind the wheel of the "Patty Wagon."

THQ's new SpongeBob game is scheduled to ship this fall for the PS2, GC, Xbox, GBA, and PC.