Matrix deal finalized?

Interplay has finalized its licensing agreement with Warner Bros. and will release its first game based on the Matrix property for the Sony PlayStation 2, according to a report in the Daily Variety. The report further states that Interplay and Warner Bros. have signed a multiyear agreement that will allow Interplay to release several Matrix games on multiple next-generation platforms. The first game is reportedly in the action-adventure genre and is being developed by Shiny Entertainment. It will tie in closely with the upcoming Matrix sequel, which will be released next year.

The article names Electronic Arts as a rumored pursuant of the license, but an EA spokesperson denied those rumors and said that the company has never been involved in any specific negotiations with Warner Brothers regarding the Matrix license. Interplay officials could neither confirm, nor deny, the report. When contacted, an Interplay spokesperson said that she is unable to comment at this time.