MTV, Beatles to Collaborate on New Music Video Game

Authored by Mark Hefflinger on October 30, 2008 - 8:58am.

New York - Viacom's (NYSE: VIA) MTV Networks on Thursday announced a deal with the Beatles' record label, Apple Corps, to create a Beatles-branded music video game. The game -- which apparently will not be part of MTV's "Rock Band" franchise -- was conceived with input from Sir Paul McCartney and Ringo Star, approved by Yoko Ono Lennon and Olivia Harrison, and will feature "LOVE" project co-producer Giles Martin as Music Producer.

"The project is a fun idea which broadens the appeal of The Beatles and their music. I like people having the opportunity to get to know the music from the inside out," Sir Paul McCartney said.

Notably, the video game deal has been struck before any of the Beatles' music has been made available to purchase in digital format from services like iTunes.

"It's cool. I love it and hope it will keep inspiring and encouraging the young generation for many decades," said Yoko Ono Lennon.

MTV's Harmonix games studio -- which created the "Rock Band" franchise -- will develop the title, which will be published by MTV Games in late 2009.