Cartoon Network finds winner for online game contest by
Kit
Sunday, March 28, 2004
Looks like Project Goldmaster has taken the nod.
Cartoon Network and America Online today announced the winner of the first “Project Goldmaster” program at the Game Developer Conference in San Jose, Calif., the most important professional development event for the game industry. Flashbang Studios, LLC will create an online game for CartoonNetwork.com’s Power Play games area featuring popular Cartoon Network characters from series such as Codename: Kids Next Door, The Grim Adventures of Billy and Mandy or Samurai Jack.
The process of developing a game using Cartoon Network's intellectual property will be featured on the AOL® Journal blogging service. Through the creation of video vignettes, early story boards, screen images and interviews with the game-makers, AOL will offer gamers an inside view into the of the creation of a game.
Located in Tempe, Ariz., Flashbang Studios, LLC was formed in 2003 by Matthew Weigner, Mike Kime and Steve Swink. While only business partners for a year, the team went to school together and have been friends for six years.
“We are excited for the opportunity to work with Cartoon Network,” said Matthew Weigner, development director, Flashbang Studios, LLC. “We’re enormous fans of Adult Swim and are looking forward to working with characters from our favorite shows.”
“We were impressed by their independent spirit of gaming and their passion for the Cartoon Network brand,” said Paul Condolora, vice president and general manager, Cartoon Network New Media. “They went beyond the requirements to demonstrate their skills. They’re young but skilled in using top-notch technology. We’re excited to see what this collaboration will yield.”
“This is a really exciting opportunity for our members to see how a game is developed and participate in process of turning an idea into a finished product,” said Matthew Bromberg, Vice President and General Manager, AOL Games. “At AOL® Games, we are always searching for new ways to bring gamers unique experiences that are available only through the AOL service.”
In its sixth year, the Independent Games Festival received more than 111 original entries representing 18 countries in two different categories. A panel of 51 narrowed down the field to 20 of the most innovative independent game developers worldwide. Cartoon Network New Media game developers and creative staff interviewed all of the finalists, looking for physics, gameplay and creativity.
