America Online launched FIRECHILD, a 3D online action game built exclusively for the RED service, AOL's new service created just for teens. Created by Sarbakan, FIRECHILD is a console-quality, story-driven online game that can be played using the AOL for Broadband service.
"FIRECHILD takes the online gaming experience to a whole new level," said Malcolm Bird, svp/gm of kids and teens, America Online. "Teens will love this cinematic story driven game with its rich environments and advanced features. FIRECHILD exemplifies AOL's commitment to giving teens exclusive programming based on their interests."
"AOL's RED service and FIRECHILD are a natural fit," said Guy Boucher, ceo, Sarbakan. "With FIRECHILD, Sarbakan has broken new ground, both visually and technically. We are thrilled to offer this exciting new game to AOL members."
FIRECHILD is a third person, action game, where players take on the role of Lona, a young girl who fights against alien forces to find her missing brother Waken. Players must guide Lona through five different episodes, which range from mystical temples to the pits of sewers.
Sarbakan used WildTangents WebDriver technology platform to produce and develop the game.
America Online, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Time Warner Inc. Based in Dulles, Virginia, America Online is the world's leader in interactive services, Web brands, Internet technologies and e-commerce services.
Founded in 1998, Quebec City-based Sarbakan is a studio that specializes in the development and exploitation of animated content such as GOOD NIGHT MR. SNOOZLEBERG, ARCANE and STEPPENWOLF. Over the last five years, Sarbakans original online productions have been distributed in 15 countries and generate, on an average month, more than 100,000 hours of Web gameplay. Kids' WB!, Viacom, Sony, CBC/La Société Radio-Canada, Groupe TF1 and The National Film Board of Canada are but some of its famous clients. For more information, visit www.sarbakan.com.
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
Creator of Rick's Flicks Picks
