Last year, Trion World Networks announced it would develop a massively multiplayer online game in conjunction with the then-Sci Fi channel. On June 2 that year, the company also revealed it had acquired a license to develop a PlayStation 3 game
and touted the console's online-connectivity capabilities. However, at
the time, it was unclear if the upcoming MMOG was bound for Sony's
console.
Now, though, three new job listings on Trion's Web site appear to
confirm the television-based MMOG is indeed coming to the PS3. The
developer is looking to hire a "PS3 Senior Programmer," a "PS3 Senior Graphics Programmer," and a "PS3 Interface Designer"
to work at its San Diego offices. For the Senior Graphics Programmer
listing, the site states the employee "is responsible for developing
key rendering systems and technologies for the next generation of
server-based gaming to be co-developed with the Sci Fi Channel." (Emphasis added.)
As part of Trion's arrangement with the network--now known simply as SyFy--the
game developer will team up with the television channel to create an
MMOG that impacts the storyline of a corresponding television show on
the network.
"A television show that is on once a week isn't enough. The
fans today want the experience to go beyond that," said then-Sci Fi
president Dave Howe in an interview with the Los Angeles Times.
"For example, we can tell them that there will be an alien invasion at
a certain place in the game, at a certain time, and to be there with
all their friends and be ready. The outcome depends on them. And then
that battle will be part of the universe in the show."
The developer also has other MMOGs in the works. Trion
announced earlier it would develop and publish a fantasy-themed
massively multiplayer online role-playing game. More recently, in April
2008, the company said it would codevelop a massively multiplayer online real-time strategy title with Petroglyph Games.
