Former Call of Duty developers are crafting the first-ever video game based on the iconic Kickboxer martial arts film franchise. Force Multiplier Studios, a Los Angeles-based company, is collaborating with Dimitri Logothetis and Rob Hickman, the creative minds behind the recent Kickboxer trilogy reboot, to bring this project to life.
The original 1989 Kickboxer film, starring Jean-Claude Van Damme, launched a successful franchise. While Van Damme didn't reprise his role in Kickboxer 2, he returned for the 2016 reboot, Kickboxer: Vengeance, and its sequel. A third installment, Kickboxer: Armageddon, is slated for production this spring.
The Kickboxer video game, currently in its early stages, promises a thrilling blend of narrative and action. Force Multiplier Studios assures fans it will "combine the rich narrative of Kickboxer with kinetic martial arts action to deliver an intense, high-octane brawler, featuring iconic characters and locations from the franchise."
While the studio remained tight-lipped about Van Damme's involvement, Chief Creative Officer Brent Friedman stated, "We're all massive fans of the Kickboxer movies, and we have the licenses to many characters and likenesses from the Kickboxer universe that we're very excited about. We'll have much more to share later in the year."
Force Multiplier Studios, co-founded by industry veterans with experience on titles like Call of Duty, Borderlands, Halo, Tomb Raider, and Mortal Kombat, aims to deliver an innovative gaming experience.
Dimitri Logothetis, writer and director of Kickboxer: Armageddon, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Kickboxer is more than just a film; it's a cultural phenomenon… We're going to create a gaming experience that pays tribute to the original film while introducing exciting new gameplay elements.”
The studio's previous work includes Karnivus, a combat shooter released within Fortnite. However, the Kickboxer game represents a significant advancement for the team. CEO Jeremy Breslau highlighted their commitment to innovation, promising "a dynamic brawler that will empower players to be the best kickboxers in the world, traveling to exotic locales and introducing new environmental combat mechanics."
Further details, including screenshots and a trailer, are expected later this year.
