Kickboxing Goes Digital: Former Call of Duty Devs Unveils First Official Video Game

Former Call of Duty developers are crafting the first-ever video game adaptation of the iconic Kickboxer martial arts film franchise.

Force Multiplier Studios, a Los Angeles-based development house, is collaborating with Dimitri Logothetis and Rob Hickman, the creative minds behind the recent Kickboxer trilogy reboot, to bring this fighting game to life.

The original 1989 Kickboxer film, starring Jean-Claude Van Damme, launched a successful franchise. While Van Damme didn't reprise his role in Kickboxer 2, he returned for the 2016 reboot, Kickboxer: Vengeance, alongside Dave Bautista, and its 2018 sequel, Kickboxer: Retaliation. A third installment, Kickboxer: Armageddon, is slated for production this spring.

The game, currently in early development, promises a blend of compelling storytelling and intense martial arts action, according to Force Multiplier Studios. It will feature iconic characters and locations from the original franchise, made famous by Jean-Claude Van Damme.

While IGN inquired about Van Damme's involvement, Force Multiplier Studios remained tight-lipped. Brent Friedman, Chief Creative Officer, stated, "We're huge fans of the Kickboxer films, and we possess licenses for numerous characters and likenesses from the Kickboxer universe, which we're incredibly excited about. We'll unveil more details later this year."

Force Multiplier Studios, co-founded by Jeremy Breslau, Brent Friedman, and Charnjit Bansi, boasts a team with extensive experience in AAA titles like Call of Duty, Borderlands, Halo, Tomb Raider, and Mortal Kombat.

"Kickboxer transcends a simple film; it's a cultural phenomenon that has captivated generations of fans and martial artists," commented Dimitri Logothetis, writer and director of Kickboxer: Armageddon. "I'm delighted to partner with the exceptional team at Force Multiplier Studios. We're committed to delivering a gaming experience that honors the original film while introducing innovative gameplay mechanics."

Force Multiplier Studios previously launched Karnivus, an environmental combat shooter within Fortnite. The Kickboxer game represents a significant advancement for the studio.

"Our passion lies in innovation," added Jeremy Breslau, CEO of Force Multiplier Studios. "Just as we're pushing boundaries with Karnivus in Fortnite Creative, we're eager to revolutionize the fighting genre with a dynamic brawler that empowers players to become the ultimate kickboxers, exploring exotic locations and utilizing new environmental combat mechanics for an unparalleled martial arts experience."

Further details, including screenshots and a trailer, are expected later in the year.