NEWS - Friday, August 16, 2002
Vivendi Creates Black Label Studios
In contrast to earlier reports, Vivendi Universal has announced plans to expand rather than leave the videogame industry. The prolific publishing house’s newest addition, Black Label Studios, will both develop and publish new titles for multiple consoles as well as PC, starting with The Thing and The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring. Videogame adaptations of Universal motion pictures released under the ominous Black Label will all sport Mature ratings, with conventional titles seeing release as nothing less than Teen-rated games. Well-known for enjoyable titles aimed at all ages, Vivendi is clearly plotting a course for more mature audiences with its new development and publishing studio. Jim Wilson, president of Universal Interactive, said of the new label, "The idea started a few months ago as we looked at the growth of the Universal Interactive label and the fact that it’s best known for youth-oriented video game franchises like ’Crash Bandicoot’ and ’Spyro the Dragon.’ " Added Wilson, "We want to expand to the edgier Teen and Mature games market, and Black Label will help continue our growth." Ex-Vivendi CEO Jean-Marie Messier could not be reached for comment as news reporters became lost and disoriented by his mazelike, $17.5 million New York estate.Source: http://www.gamers.com/
