Konami summons Death Jr.

Written by John Scalzo on January 28, 2005

News: Is that Death in your pocket or are you just happy to see me?

Death Jr. was the first title announced for the PSP almost a year ago. But until today it didn't have a publisher, thankfully Konami has polished his scythe and is giving Death a home on the PSP.

Death Jr. is being developed by Backbone Entertainment, better known to most gamers as the corporation behind Midway Arcade Treasures devleoper Digital Eclipse. The game will be an action platformer that uses "first person shooter elements" as Death Jr attempts to undo the bad stuff he's done.

The game stars Death, Jr., a mischievous youngster who embarks with his friends on a school field trip to the local museum. When the group sneaks away to explore on their own, they unwittingly unleash an ancient evil from a mysterious locked box. Now, facing near insurmountable odds and the threat of being grounded and sent to military school, Death, Jr. and his pals must fight hoards of demons and their wicked master Moloch through the museum's displays and surrounding town before anyone else finds out.

In order to avoid getting in trouble, and to save his friends from eternal suffering at the hands of Moloch, Death, Jr. must eliminate the evil demon scourge that has taken over the town. Armed with a mighty scythe, which serves as both a weapon and unique platforming tool, and an arsenal of guns and explosives, Death, Jr. will battle through numerous action-filled levels towards a final confrontation with Moloch himself.

From the description, Death Jr. almost sounds like a spiritual companion to Maximo.

Backbone also has plans to make Death Jr. an iconic character beyond video games. Plans are underway for a comic book from Image Comics, a toy and collectibles line by Gentle Giant and a movie is being developed around the Death boy as we speak.

The game is currently scheduled for a Summer release date and here are five fresh screens if you want them.