Hero: 108 is heading to markets worldwide this year. Hero: 108 is the first ever cross-platform collaboration between industry leaders Gamania Digital Entertainment, Cartoon Network, Moonscoop Entertainment, and Playmates Toys.

The result is a multi-platform entertainment experience for kids and teens, first introducing fans to the Hidden Lands of the Animal Kingdom with a quirky, colorful, fast-paced and action-packed massively multi-player online game in the second quarter of 2010. Cartoon Network co-produced the animated television series with Moonscoop Entertainment, which will air on Cartoon Network globally throughout the year. The Hero: 108 franchise will also add a distinctive line of consumer products with collectable Hero: 108 toys, in partnership with Playmates Toys, later in the year.

“Hero: 108’s creative story, lively characters and charming world make it the ideal brand for the multi-platform media experience across both real and online worlds,” said David Wong, COO, Gamania Digital Entertainment (US) Co., Ltd.

Gamania’s Creative Center originally developed Hero: 108 as a unique graphic interpretation of the 14th Century Chinese novel “The Water Margin Stories,” an epic clash of spirits, outlaws and emperors. In the core storyline of Hero: 108, humans and animals lived together in harmony until High Roller, a malicious character, was unceremoniously banished from the Eastern capital. High Roller grudgingly wandered the Hidden Lands and developed a deep hatred for those who cast him out. Fate, often a playful catalyst, intervened and High Roller was struck by lightning – in turn bestowing him with the amazing ability to speak to animals. With his new powers, High Roller brainwashed his new furry friends into believing that humans are evil – and began his plans to take revenge against those who exiled him.

The first of the Hero: 108 product line is Hero: 108 Online, a teen-centric free-to-play online video game that will enter a limited, sneak peak, closed beta in North America in Spring 2010. Information on sign-ups for the sneak peak beta will be available shortly before then on the official Hero: 108 Online website http://www.hero108online.com. The online game will feature witty cartoon characters and a lively storyline that will be mirrored in its upcoming animated series counterpart. Hero: 108 Online will incorporate a micropayment model, providing players with unlimited free entertainment and the option to enhance or customize their experience with several skill and novelty items.