Former Call of Duty developers are crafting the first-ever video game based on the iconic Kickboxer 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, spawned numerous sequels. 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 blend of compelling storytelling and intense martial arts action. Force Multiplier Studios aims to deliver a high-octane brawler featuring beloved characters and locations from the franchise, honoring the legacy of Jean-Claude Van Damme.
While the studio remained tight-lipped about Van Damme's involvement, Brent Friedman, Chief Creative Officer at Force Multiplier Studios, confirmed they possess licenses for numerous characters and likenesses from the Kickboxer universe. Further details are expected later this year.
Force Multiplier Studios, co-founded by industry veterans Jeremy Breslau, Brent Friedman, and Charnjit Bansi (with credits on Call of Duty, Borderlands, Halo, Tomb Raider, and Mortal Kombat), brings a wealth of experience to the project.
Dimitri Logothetis, writer and director of Kickboxer: Armageddon, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting the franchise's cultural impact and the team's commitment to creating a unique gaming experience that both respects the original film and introduces innovative gameplay mechanics.
The studio's previous work includes Karnivus, a combat shooter released within Fortnite. However, the Kickboxer game represents a significant step up in scale and ambition for Force Multiplier Studios. Jeremy Breslau, CEO, emphasized their dedication to innovation within the fighting genre, promising a dynamic brawler that will allow players to become ultimate kickboxers, exploring exotic locations and utilizing novel environmental combat mechanics.
Currently, no screenshots or trailers are available. Further information is anticipated later in the year.
