The two million fans of Revolution’s Broken Sword 1 and 2 adventures will be celebrating today, as the York-based developer has confirmed that the third instalment in its hugely-successful series has been given the green light.
After Internet sites began speculating about the existence of the title last week, Revolution can reveal that Broken Sword: The Sleeping Dragon is in development for PlayStation 2, Xbox and PC.
The game is scheduled for release in 2002.
Details are still firmly under wraps, but Charles Cecil, managing director of Revolution Software, has confirmed that the series will take adventure gaming to the next level.
“Whilst we’re immensely proud of the previous two games, we felt that we had taken the point and click adventure as far as technology would allow,” reveals Charles. “We have been experimenting with the next-generation development systems and now have a clear vision, both technically and creatively, as to how to bring the series bang up to date, with a new look and new style of play – but the same high production values upon which we have built our reputation.
“The design document and provisional script for Broken Sword: The Sleeping Dragon have been completed, and we’re tremendously excited about the ideas. George Stobbart and Nico will return once again – though they will have matured in both characterisation and appearance.
“We have a clear and exciting vision for the next generation of adventure games. The advance in technology finally allows us to create a visually stunning game with a strong atmosphere and plot that exploits the opportunities of a full 3D world
“Written very much as a dark crime thriller, with the look and feel of a Hollywood action film, the game will place new demands on players, as they explore a whole new world full of exotic locations. Broken Sword: The Sleeping Dragon will require a mix of skills in order to succeed – including stealth, combat and puzzle solving – making this truly the next generation of adventure games. The game’s set pieces will be truly explosive and offer scope for a new breed of puzzle.
“Along the way, gamers will meet some old friends and some new adversaries – all the while battling against an enemy and threat based upon present-day myths; in short, the kind of rich plot which has ensured the global popularity of the previous two games.”
Further information for Broken Sword: The Sleeping Dragon will soon be placed at www.revolution.co.uk and www.brokensword3.com, along with updated artwork for the game’s central characters. Gamers will soon also be able to register for "The Revolution" - a bi-monthly newsletter detailing progress on the game.