E3 2010: Gameforge Boldy Goes with New Free-to-Play Online Star Trek Games

German online game publisher to debut new Star Trek games in 2011based on the classic series and Star Trek Deep Space Nine

Just in time for E3 2010, German videogame publisher Gameforge has inked a worldwide licensing agreement with CBS Consumer Products to publish free-to-play (F2P) browser games based on the legendary science-fiction franchise Star Trek. Acquiring the Star Trek license marks the start of Gameforge’s global expansion, as the online game publisher begins development to bring the Star Trek universe to life in browser-based properties, beginning in 2011. The first games under the international licensing agreement will take players into the deep reaches of space in the Star Trek Classic timeline as well as the tumultuous and vibrant timeline of Star Trek Deep Space Nine.

“Securing such a high-profile license is an important step for Gameforge,” said Christoph Jennen, CFO of Gameforge. “We are proud that the quality of our games and publishing services enabled us to acquire a license of this caliber. Our upcoming Star Trek browser games will further expand our consumer base and market share on an international scale.”

The Star Trek universe has entertained millions around the world for decades and boasts one of the most loyal and dedicated fan bases in popular culture. Entrusting the Star Trek IP to free-to-play specialist Gameforge allows CBS Consumer Products to bring the storied franchise to the fastest growing sector of the games market, and to millions of players across the globe.

“The popularity of Star Trek spans decades and is a testament to the richness and depth of the universe Gene Roddenberry created – at Gameforge, we put the same level of detail and dedication into our games,” said Ralf Adam, Vice President of Publishing at Gameforge. “Honoring the Star Trek legacy and providing the global community with an excellent free-to-play online browser game is something we are very dedicated to and excited about.”

Atari holds the exclusive MMO Star Trek license and continues to support its subscription-based Star Trek Online with new content. Star Trek actors Leonard Nimoy and Zachary Quinto are featured in that game. Nimoy will actually be on hand at E3 to promote Yoostar.

Gameforge is one the largest independent global provider of online games. Located in Karlsruhe, Germany, Gameforge offers 20 games in more than 50 languages and more than 100 million registered users worldwide. The Gameforge portfolio includes Metin2, the largest massively multiplayer online game in Europe and popular games such as OGame, Ikariam, Gates of Andaron, or Gladiatus. The Gameforge portal MMOGAME.COM integrates all Gameforge games in a comprehensive community network.

http://www.gamerlive.tv/article/e3-2010-gameforge-boldy-goes-new-free-play-online-star-trek-games