So, as expected, MTV Games are going to launch a Beatles based video game, though it won't, as thought, be simply a Fab Four version of their 'Guitar Hero' competing pretend-to-play 'Rock Band' franchise; rather MTV and developers Harmonix will collaborate on a brand new video game incorporating the Beatles catalogue. Though it does sound like it will be pretty similar to the 'Guitar Hero'/'Rock Band' format.
We know this because we received this official statement yesterday: "The Beatles' extraordinary music and phenomenal legacy is set to rock across the universe in the form of a video game through an exclusive partnership between Apple Corps Ltd, Harmonix and MTV Games, a part of Viacom's MTV Networks. This partnership marks the first time that Apple Corps, along with EMI Music, Harrisongs Ltd, and Sony/ATV Music Publishing, has agreed to present The Beatles music in an interactive video game format. Published by MTV Games and developed by Harmonix, the world's premier music video game company and creators of the best-selling 'Rock Band', the game will be an unprecedented, experiential progression through and celebration of the music and artistry of The Beatles". Basically, I think that's trying to say what I said.
Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Yoko Ono and Olivia Harrison will all have an input on the Beatles game, and it will be produced, on the music side, by Giles Martin, son of Fab Four producer George Martin, who co-produced the Beatles recent 'LOVE' album.
Confirming his support for the project, Paul McCartney said: "The project is a fun idea which broadens the appeal of The Beatles and their music. I like people having the opportunity to get to know the music from the inside out".
Ringo, meanwhile, told reporters: "It gives me great pleasure to be part of The Beatles / Apple and Harmonix / Rock Band partnership. The Beatles continue to evolve with the passing of time and how wonderful that The Beatles' legacy will find its natural progression into the 21st century through the computerised world we live in. Let the games commence".
The Beatles game will be released sometime next year.