Online game publisher WildTangent, which helps marketers develop and distribute commercially sponsored games for integrated advertising and direct marketing campaigns, yesterday announced new
agreements with FOXSports, FX Networks and Pepsi International to deliver online games to consumers while offering advertisers what the company calls a "truly immersive medium." The three marketers
are using WildTangent to develop the following:
FOXSports Hit the Pros 2003 -- Developed by WildTangent and FOXSports.com, Hit the Pros 2003 is the
latest version of the baseball game that incorporates real-time pitch data from Major League Baseball games. Pepsi Shootout -- Soccer fans around the
world can test their goal scoring skills and compete for standings on the worldwide leaderboard. The game is part of an integrated international advertising campaign that features David Beckham, Juan
Veron and other soccer stars. FX Networks' Lucky -- Developed by WildTangent's in-house development studio, Lucky is designed to promote FX's new show
of the same name starring John Corbett. Lucky is available for free at www.fxnetworks.com. In addition to the Lucky game, WildTangent also developed an "Upfront" presentation for FX to use this
spring in showcasing their fall lineup to media buyers. FX Networks is the first cable network to take their presentation to the next level, by using a video game look and feel instead of the standard
video presentation. The presentation includes characters from FX Networks' hit shows as well as voice-overs from the actors themselves, including Michael Chiklis, star of The Shield.
Chris
Carlisle, EVP, marketing and promotions at FX Networks said the game "truly captures the show's look and feel and allows players to experience first-hand the challenges and shady characters Lucky
faces in the series."
WildTangent publishes and distributes games through a broad network of distribution partners, including leading PC manufacturers, major ISPs and game portals such as HP,
Compaq, Logitech, Shockwave, IGN, GamePro, Verizon, EarthLink, BellSouth and Road Runner.
