F1 at stalemate over new computer game deal

[Kinger]

Formula one fans may have to wait for the next official computer game, as Sony and Bernie Ecclestone are reportedly locked in stalemate over a new publishing deal.

Sony Computer Entertainment's previous exclusive publishing deal, covering the 2003-2007 period, was for a rumored $200 million, according to the technology news source TG Daily.

The website said the "gap between what Sony is willing to pay for a (new) license and what Bernie Ecclestone's (company) is demanding is too wide".

Industry sources are reporting that rival computer publishers EA, Ubisoft and Codemasters may now be in the running for the new five-year contract.




Saw this on autoracing1. I am blown away by the Licencing fee. There is no way a publisher could make much money while paying that before any code is even created. Unfortunatley Sim racing is not mainstream and is a very niche market. Just for reference, is estimated that development cost for GTA IV was in the neighbourhood of 100Mil. And Bernie wants 200Mil just for the license. He must be smoking crack with Amy Winehouse and Pete Doherty while playing nazi with max.

[davidan]

That's insane -- that's Bernie for you ... I believe he thinks F1 is much more popular than it actually is

[Shane Thompson]

He must be smoking crack with Amy Winehouse and Pete Doherty while playing nazi with max.

HAAAAAAAA

[Kinger]

F1 reaches new video game licensing deal

Formula one has reached a new computer game licensing deal, with the British company Codemasters, gaming websites reported on Friday.

The news follows reports earlier this week that said Bernie Ecclestone was at odds with F1's previous game developer, Sony Computer Entertainment, who last produced an official title for the Playstation in 2006.

The gaming websites on Friday said Codemasters has already begun development of its first official F1 game, which will be available on multiple gaming platforms in 2009.

"This alliance with formula one is the jewel in Codemasters' racing crown," CEO Rod Cousens is quoted as saying.



Looks like Codemasters has some deep pockets. While I have enjoyed some of thier rally offerings, I have not been very impressed with thier physics in any other form of motorsports. Will you buy it?

I am also not sure why Sony bought the exlusive rights for a number of years and then only made one game.