News
Dchoc creates k-os with EMI
Stuart O'Brien Dec 19 2006, 9:45am
Digital Chocolate has partnered with EMI Music Canada to publish a customised version of its Nightclub Empire mobile game.
The deal comes week after Dchoc inked an agreement with HBO to develop and publish content based on the Sopranos TV series.
Although both deals are somewhat unsual for Dchoc, which generally eschews branded content in favour of original IP, the EMI game draws heavily on the company's expertise with connected and community elements.
Both companies say that tailored, integrated music and game offerings will enable operators to cross-promote their music and games decks.
The new version of the Nightclub Empire game will be called Club k-os and incorporates the likeness of innovative hip-hop artist K-os – aka Kheaven Brereton – and his single Sunday Morning, from upcoming album Atlantis: Hymns for Disco.
There are a series of physical and digital marketing tie-ins that will allow punters to purchase the game directly via a short code. Meanwhile, Dchoc's 'Get More Games' feature provides fans a direct link to their carrier’s music deck to download K-os specific ringtones.
Additionally, participating operators will be offered fully-integrated websites that allow consumers to download the exclusive Club K-os game, ringtones and wallpaper.
Sean Hutchison of EMI Music Canada, said: “Digital Chocolate is an ideal partner for us to further break a hot artist like k-os internationally. We looked for a partner who could engage k-os fans with a compelling, tailored game that would add value to his image. Digital Chocolate’s relationships with top operators worldwide, allows us to get this game and music into the hands of consumers globally. “
Trip Hawkins, founder and CEO of Digital Chocolate, said: "While mobile gamers and music lovers often share common lifestyle interests, there have been very few mobile entertainment experiences that merge today’s hottest musical artists with the most popular mobile games. By partnering with EMI Music Canada and leveraging our own catalog of quality, original mobile content, we are able to deliver an innovative mobile experience that not only entertains, but also will help carriers increase their cross-selling capabilities.”
Club K-os is live on carriers in Canada and will be available through US carriers in early 2007.
