D3Publisher (D3P), a publisher and developer of interactive entertainment software, together with its parent D3, Inc., today announced a worldwide publishing agreement with the Universal Pictures Digital Platforms Group for videogames based on Focus Features and LAIKA Entertainment’s Coraline, the upcoming high-definition stop-motion animated feature – the first to be originally filmed in 3-D. The newest movie from visionary director Henry Selick (The Nightmare Before Christmas), Coraline is based on Neil Gaiman’s international best-selling book of the same title. The games are scheduled to be released for console and handheld systems in Q1 2009 to coincide with Focus’ nationwide release of the movie on February 6, 2009.

“The alternative-reality based plot of Coraline translates exceptionally well to an interactive gaming adventure,” said Yoji Takenaka, executive vice president and chief operating officer, North America and Europe, D3P. “We are enjoying working closely with the filmmakers and the team at Universal and Focus Features to authentically portray the film’s unique cast of characters and allow players of all ages to experience not only key environments and moments from the movie, but also elements that go beyond the feature film.”

“Coraline is a fantastically imagined world, filled with quirky characters and unexpected events,” said Bill Kispert, VP and General Manager, Interactive, Universal Pictures Digital Platforms Group. “And with just the right blend of humor, adventure, and spookiness, it is the perfect source material for a truly unique adventure game.”

Coraline (The Game) is a surrealistic adventure game that will enthrall gamers of all ages with its moody atmosphere, engaging narrative and cast of colorful characters. The console products are being developed by Papaya Studios, and the handheld products are being developed by ART.

About Coraline (The Movie)

From Henry Selick, visionary director of The Nightmare Before Christmas, and based on Neil Gaiman’s international best-selling book, comes a spectacular high-definition stop-motion animated feature – the first to be originally filmed in 3-D. A young girl (Dakota Fanning) walks through a secret door in her new home and discovers an alternate version of her life. On the surface, this parallel reality is eerily similar to her real life – only much better. But when this wondrously off-kilter, fantastical adventure turns dangerous, and her counterfeit parents (including Other Mother [Teri Hatcher]) try to keep her forever, Coraline must count on her resourcefulness, determination, and bravery to get back home – and save her family.