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, launched a successful franchise. While Van Damme didn't reprise his role in Kickboxer 2, he returned for the 2016 reboot, Kickboxer: Vengeance, and its 2018 sequel, Kickboxer: Retaliation, alongside Dave Bautista. 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. According to Force Multiplier Studios, the game will feature iconic characters and locations from the franchise, delivering a high-octane brawler experience.
While Force Multiplier Studios remained tight-lipped about Jean-Claude Van Damme's involvement, Chief Creative Officer Brent Friedman 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 experience on titles like 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 excitement about the collaboration, stating that the game will honor the original film while incorporating innovative gameplay.
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 the team. CEO Jeremy Breslau highlighted their commitment to innovation within the fighting genre, promising a dynamic brawler with new environmental combat mechanics.
Currently, no screenshots or trailers are available. More information is anticipated later in the year.
