Namco gobbles up Peanuts @ Gaming Target

Written by John Scalzo on April 20, 2005

News: Charlie Brown and the gang will be in video games soon. Video game football perhaps?

Namco continued their license acquisition roll today when they purchased the video game rights to the Peanuts characters for all current and future consoles and handhelds through 2009.

"'Peanuts' is one of the most celebrated comic strips of all time, and Charlie Brown and his friends have firmly cemented their place as American icons of the highest order," said Jeff Lujan, Business Director at Namco Hometek, Inc. "We relish this opportunity to continue these beloved characters' storylines through the medium of games and are honored to introduce this cherished property to an all-new generation of gamers."

"Namco has proven its ability to translate franchises to the video game format with respect and care," said Jean Sagendorph, Licensing Manager at United Media. "Working with such a capable partner will allow us the opportunity to grow the 'Peanuts' property in this popular category, as well as reach new audiences."

No actual game has been announced yet, but we'll keep you posted when it does. And now for a little fun, the (very) condensed history of Peanuts courtesy of Namco:

Debuting in just seven newspapers in 1950, "Peanuts" has since been enjoyed by millions of readers and viewers worldwide. Today the popular strip can be read in over 2400 newspapers in 75 countries and 21 languages worldwide. Charles M. Schulz's unique art style and endearing characters have inspired an entire generation of cartoonists, while becoming a perennial favorite with both parents and children through compilation books, television specials, and countless consumer products.