SEGA sends word that they have licensed the Aliens franchise to make some first person shooter games for next-gen systems. The games are in pre-production so don’t bother marking it on your calendar yet as the earliest they will be out is 2009.

SEGA of America Inc., SEGA Europe Ltd. and Twentieth Century Fox Licensing & Merchandising today announced a worldwide exclusive agreement to bring game content based on the critically-acclaimed Alien film franchise to next-generation gaming systems. Multiple titles, including a first-person shooter and a role playing game, are currently in pre-production with the first to be released in 2009. Securing the rights to produce Alien titles reinforces SEGA’s strategy of combining premium licensed content with original IP to aggressively expand its global business. “As a direct result of Fox’s efforts over the past 27 years, Alien has become one of the most recognised franchises in the motion picture industry,” said Simon Jeffery, President and Chief Operating Officer, SEGA of America, Inc. “SEGA will utilise the power of next-gen systems to blend the time-honoured story with leading edge design technology to deliver a riveting and suspenseful gameplay experience.” “Alien is one of those special franchises that has continued to thrive in licensing long after it has left theaters. The L & M program has been very successful over the years because we have partnered with the best companies in each category and created appealing products that become must-haves for the extremely loyal Alien fans.” added Elie Dekel, Executive Vice President, Fox Licensing & Merchandising. “We look forward to partnering with SEGA, a known leader in the gaming industry, to expand the program to the next generation gaming systems and bring the franchise to life with the newest technology and gameplay.” Since its 1979 debut, Alien and its three sequels have grossed more than $557 million worldwide, garnering numerous awards, including two Academy Awards. In 2002, Alien was deemed “culturally significant” by the United States Library of Congress and was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry. For more information, please visit www.sega.com/aliens