Disney’s take on Activision’s Skylanders brings some of the most iconic film characters to gaming in a new way.
Initially a line of 40 collectible interactive pieces will be introduced that allow players to expand and customize their play experiences. Seventeen character figures will allow players to experience a variety of their favorite characters in true to property experiences and in “Toy Box” mode. When figures are placed on the Infinity base, they unlock the world and play experiences of Disney Infinity. Interactive discs can be placed on the Infinity base to power up characters and “Toy Box” with unique powers, customizations and gadgets.
“Disney Infinity combines prominent Disney and Pixar characters and scenarios in a way that mimics how kids play in real life,” said John Blackburn, vice president and general manager, Avalanche Software, which is spearheading the development. “With our platform’s unique gameplay mechanics and innovative approach to user generated content within the “Toy Box” mode, Disney Infinity will spark imaginations and provide endless hours of fun and creativity.”
Over the last two years, Activision has seen its toy-game hybrid, Skylanders, generate over $500 million in the U.S. with two bestselling games and a hot toy line. Disney is adding its biggest brands to this equation for this cross-platform game experience, which will launch in June in tandem with Pixar’s Monsters University. Sulley will be one of the game’s characters. This opens up a new way for Disney to connect movies with gamers.
Disney missed the boat on Marvel’s The Avengers hit in the gaming space and the company licensed its Wreck-It Ralph Oscar-nominated film out to Activision. Moving forward, Disney characters from new films, and old, can be incorporated into this platform without needing to develop a full console experience from the ground up.
