Final Fantasy IX lands animated series adaptation with Cyber Group Studios

The Paris-based Cyber Group Studios has struck a co-development and co-production deal with the Japanese video game company, Square Enix to adapt its fantasy title Final Fantasy IX for the small screen.

The move will mark the first time that the Final Fantasy franchise’s ninth title will be the subject of an animated series. In addition to producing the series, Cyber Group will also handle worldwide distribution, licensing, and merchandise.

In a report from Kidscreen, Pierre Sissman, CEO of Cyber Group, said that the company is planning to begin pitching to broadcasters in the coming months. The goal, according to the CEO, is to begin production by the end of 2021 or beginning of 2022.

Originally launched in 2000, Final Fantasy IX has sold more than five million copies worldwide and follows the story of a thief who kidnaps a princess but finds himself teaming up with her to save the kingdom from evil forces. It is the ninth installment in a franchise that has sold more than 154 million copies worldwide collectively.

With a history spanning 30 years in the video games space, the franchise has been the focus of a TV adaptation previously, however its Cyber Group Studios deal will mark the first time that the game’s ninth iteration specifically will be adapted as an animated kids’ series.

WildBrain CPLG appoints Jasen Wright to lead North American expansion in newly created role

WildBrain CPLG is growing its operations in North America with the appointment of the experienced licensing executive, Jasen Wright to the newly created position of vice president, North America. In this role, Wright will be responsible for driving WildBrain CPLG’s efforts in the region and expanding its portfolio of entertainment and lifestyle brands.

Wright will be based in New York and will report into WildBrain CPLG’s EVP and managing director, Maarten Weck.

The position will see Wright focus much attention on the ambitious plans for WildBrain’s proprietary brands this year and beyond, including Strawberry Shortcake, Caillou, Teletubbies, and Chip & Potato. He will also lead the local growth of WildBrain CPLG’s wider portfolio of entertainment brands and expand existing relationships with partners, including Square Enix and its arcade gaming IP, Space Invaders.

As well as this, Wright will also drive WildBrain CPLG’s lifestyle portfolio in North America by forging new partnerships and building on existing represented brands, such as Absolut, Malibu, and Harvard and Yale universities. Alyssa Gourlay, based in California, will report into Wright and will continue developing new local opportunities as WildBrain CPLG’s director of business development.

Maarten Weck, EVP and managing director at WildBrain CPLG, said: “As we continue extending our global reach and ensuring we have a robust presence in all corners of the world, the appointment of Jasen adds significant firepower to our global operations.

“We have big plans for the North American market and with Jasen’s remarkable track record in building top-class consumer products programs, we know he’s the ideal candidate to fuel the growth and success of both WildBrain’s brands and our wider portfolio across the region.”

Jasen Wright added: “WildBrain CPLG has an outstanding reputation for developing robust global licensing programs with best-in-class partners across its impressive and varied line-up of brands. I’m looking forward to working closely with Maarten, Alyssa and the wider team as we accelerate WildBrain CPLG’s capabilities and open up further opportunities for both new and existing partners worldwide.”

Jasen Wright has developed consumer product and licensing programmes for major brands across food and beverage, home improvement, automotive, art, sports, lifestyle and entertainment. Most recently Jasen was vice president of licensing and brand management at Beanstalk, and led the global brand licensing business for Diageo’s spirit brands.

While at Beanstalk, he also developed and executed the strategy for extending Stanley Black & Decker, U.S. Army, Ford Motor Company, Harley-Davidson, The Andy Warhol Foundation and Airheads into various categories including home, hardware, home improvement, auto accessories, toys, food and beverage and confectionary.

Prior to returning to Beanstalk in 2017, Jasen worked at vice president of licensing at Bravado/Universal Music Group, Authentic Brands Group and Warner Music Group. Working across music and sports to launch such brands as Paddington Bear, Rolling Stones, Prince, Wiz Khalifa, Grateful Dead and Tretorn, extending those personalities and properties while building their demand as lifestyle brands.

Space Invaders lands Floris Van Bommel spring/summer footwear collaboration

WildBrain CPLG has secured a new partnership with the premium Dutch footwear brand, Floris Van Bommel to launch a spring/summer capsule collection inspired by the arcade game, Space Invaders.

Not content with taking over the arcade scene of the ’80s, the brand’s newest partnership will see it collaborate on three different pairs of adult trainers, each featuring the game’s recognisable colours of black, white, and green.

The designs in the Floris Van Bommel tie-up will feature Invader graphics and figurines.

The range launches in the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg this month at Floris Van Bommel’s stores and website, as well as at local department stores. The trainers will be available for men and women and priced at €219,95.

Matt Tobia, senior sales manager at WildBrain CPLG Benelux, said: “We’re seeing significant growth in the popularity of retro gaming brands, with fans being drawn to iconic designs and nostalgic appeal. Floris Van Bommel has done a fantastic job at translating Space Invaders’ iconic futuristic design into a sleek, fresh and on-trend sneaker for the modern consumer.”

Space Invaders is one of the most iconic arcade games of all time and features a simple gameplay where the player uses a laser canon that moves from left to right to defeat alien “Invaders”. The game’s futuristic design is considered one of the most iconic pop culture images of the ’70s and ’80s.

The deal was brokered by WildBrain CPLG’s Benelux team on behalf of Square Enix.

Ferrero USA launches promotional partnership with Square Enix for Final Fantasy VII Remake

The American confectioner Ferrero USA has struck up a new promotional partnership with Square Enix in celebration of the launch of the video game title Final Fantasy VII Remake.

Through the partnership, Ferrero is offering players and fans of the video game franchise a dynamic new theme for their PlayStation 4 as well as a selection of exclusive in-game accessories. Ferrero is the only confectionery company to be partnering with Square Enix on the new launch.

“Square Enix is the perfect partner to help us get gamers excited about our delicious products,” said Silvia Borla, vice president of marketing, Ferrero Chocolate Brands, Ferrero North America. “This partnership is an important next step in connecting Ferrero to the world of gaming.”

Starting March 3, with the purchase of any two Butterfinger, Baby Ruth, or Crunch bars, Final Fantasy VII Remake players can register online to receive a dynamic theme for their PlayStation 4 system featuring fan favourite character, Tifa Lockhart.

Participating players can also earn and redeem codes to download items that enhance characters in the game when it is released April 10. Up to five different pieces of in-game armour and accessories that boost stats and abilities will be available, with more powerful items awarded after every code redemption.

“Ferrero is creating a special opportunity for players to enhance their Final Fantasy VII Remake experience,” said John Heinecke, CMO of Square Enix West, “We think fans will be excited about the dynamic theme and items, and we appreciate Ferrero’s partnership in bringing this promotion to players across the United States.”

The promotion begins March 3 and is effective through May 14Further details are available at www.ButterfingerFF7R.com.