Former Call of Duty developers are crafting the first-ever video game adaptation of the iconic Kickboxer martial arts film franchise.
Force Multiplier Studios, a Los Angeles-based development house, is collaborating with Dimitri Logothetis and Rob Hickman, the creative minds behind the recent Kickboxer trilogy reboot, to bring this martial arts action to life in video game form.
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, alongside Dave Bautista, and its 2018 sequel, Kickboxer: Retaliation. A third installment, Kickboxer: Armageddon, is slated for production this spring.
The Kickboxer video game, currently in early development, promises a thrilling experience. According to Force Multiplier Studios, it will "blend the rich storytelling of Kickboxer with dynamic martial arts combat, delivering an intense, high-octane brawler featuring iconic characters and locations from the original franchise."
While IGN inquired about Jean-Claude Van Damme's involvement, Force Multiplier Studios remained tight-lipped. Brent Friedman, Chief Creative Officer, stated, "We're huge fans of the Kickboxer films, and we've secured licenses for numerous characters and likenesses from the Kickboxer universe—we're incredibly excited! More details will be revealed later this year."
Force Multiplier Studios, co-founded by Jeremy Breslau, Brent Friedman, and Charnjit Bansi, boasts a team with extensive experience in narrative design and development on titles such as Call of Duty, Borderlands, Halo, Tomb Raider, and Mortal Kombat.
"Kickboxer transcends a simple film; it's a cultural phenomenon that has inspired countless fans and martial artists," commented Dimitri Logothetis, writer and director of Kickboxer: Armageddon. "I'm delighted to partner with the exceptional team at Force Multiplier Studios. We're creating a gaming experience that honors the original film while introducing innovative gameplay mechanics."
Force Multiplier Studios previously released Karnivus, an environmental combat shooter within Fortnite. The Kickboxer game represents a significant advancement for the studio.
"Our focus is innovation," added Jeremy Breslau, CEO of Force Multiplier Studios. "Just as we're pushing boundaries with Karnivus in Fortnite Creative, we're eager to revolutionize the fighting genre with a dynamic brawler that empowers players to become the ultimate kickboxers, exploring exotic locations and utilizing new environmental combat mechanics for an unparalleled martial arts experience."
Further details, including screenshots and a trailer, are expected later in the year.
