Global video games
publisher Namco Hometek Inc. has announced that leading Japanese animation studio
GDH K.K. has granted them exclusive rights to "Afro Samurai," a graphic
manga created by Takashi Okazaki.
The game will revolve around lead character Afro, who witnesses
his father’s murder and hence devotes himself to avenging his death.
"Afro Samurai is a visually striking and rich story,"
said Jeff Lujan, Business Director at Namco Hometek Inc. "With its gritty
and unique mix of Hip-Hop and samurai styling, ‘Afro Samurai’ is perfectly suited
for video games."
Currently, "Afro" is in pre-production with GDH group
company Gonzo and the Fuji Television Network as an animated mini-series which
Academy Award Nominee Samuel L. Jackson will serve as both co-producer and lead
voice actor.
"Afro" also has plans of being adapted into a live-action
film with Jackson starring and co-producing.
With Namco’s history of producing quality games, look for "Afro"
to make a splash when it hits stores.
"Namco is
uniquely qualified to publish games based on ‘Afro Samurai,’" said Eric
Calderon, Vice President of Creative Affairs at GDH. "Gonzo is just ecstatic
to work with a company that is so passionate about the vision of the franchise
and who has produced so many outstanding, award-winning games. I can’t wait
to play it!"