Midway calls Blitz II

Midway's 2007 fiscal year could have ended better, but it wasn't without its peaks. After bemoaning delays to installments in many its major franchises, Midway CEO David Zucker said in October that new installments in its Blitz and Mortal Kombat franchises, as well as two open-world games, would reverse the company's fortunes in 2008. Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe details dropped in April, while the first of those open-world games--the just-delayed This is Vegas--was revealed in February.

Today, Midway opened the line for the third title teased by Zucker, saying Blitz: The League II would arrive for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 this fall. That represents a marked next-generation leap, considering the original was announced initially for the Xbox and PS2, with an Xbox 360 and PSP edition following, and a Wii adaptation that, while announced, didn't make it out of development.

Continuing with the franchise's time-honored tradition of cheap tricks, late hits, and in all other ways unsportsmanlike play, the unlicensed Blitz: The League II rides roughshod over the NFL's rules. Players will be given the ability to precisely aim exactly where they want to land the brunt of their hits as well as create their own touchdown celebrations. The game will also feature online multiplayer, an expanded roster, and a story penned by Playmakers scribe Peter Egan.

Returning as this year's cover's star will be Lawrence Taylor, dominant New York Giants linebacker and Hall of Famer. Taylor, who developed a reputation for cocaine use that spanned his 12-year career, is apropos for the game's cover duties, considering the original title was banned in Australia for its depiction of drug use.