Vivendi Games Mobile, a division of Vivendi Games, today announced the European launch of Crash Bandicoot® Nitro Kart and Crash Bandicoot Nitro Kart 3D, the latest titles in the billion-dollar Crash Bandicoot video game franchise which has generated more than three million mobile phone unit sales to date worldwide.
In both the 2D (for Java phones) and 3D (for Symbian devices) mobile versions of Crash Bandicoot Nitro Kart, players race on 16 thrilling new tracks through eight different exhilarating environments including underwater and outer space races. Players choose to play as one of their favorite Crash Bandicoot characters and race through an action-packed course with other characters from the Crash® universe. Ten crazy weapons and power-ups, including bonus functions like Kart Jacking and Turbo Plane, help players overtake their competitors and win the race. There are also five game modes including Cup, Arcade, Sudden Death and Monster Truck and an exclusive Story mode with in-race challenges to unlock special features.
“When we decided to create a sequel to our highly successful 2004 mobile game of the same name, we knew we had to set the bar very high and come up with the best kart-racing game available on mobile phones today,” said Paul Maglione, president of Vivendi Games Mobile. “We benchmarked all racing games on mobile phones – not just kart-racing games – and pushed the technology and graphics to the limit in both 2D and 3D and then added the craziness and attitude that make Crash Bandicoot games special. The result; a Crash Bandicoot Nitro Kart game that really packs a punch with all-new backgrounds, tracks, weapons and even different driving sensations.”
The European launch of the Crash Bandicoot Nitro Kart mobile game will be supported by an extensive marketing campaign including on-portal contests with unique Australian-themed prizes (in honor of Crash Bandicoot’s homeland); a Crash-branded re-skin of the main European mobile gaming Web site; and a heavily funded WAP (wireless application protocol) banner advertising campaign across key carrier and other mobile entertainment WAP sites.
To celebrate the launch of its 2008 flagship title, Vivendi Games Mobile is also organizing a Crash Bandicoot Grand Prix in each of the main European markets. The events will gather key players from the mobile gaming industry and selected consumers and fans who will confront one another in manic go-kart tournaments to win exciting prizes.
The Crash Bandicoot video game franchise to date has sold more than 40 million units globally and continues to be a big hit among both mobile and traditional console gamers.