Unfortunately, we don't have anyone at the DICE summit this year. Something about me blowing our entire 2009 budget on Bob the Builder DVDs, Skittles, and zombie make-up. (Don't ask.)

So it's a good thing MTV Multiplayer's Stephen Totilo is there to hear stuff like this: this afternoon Electronic Art's John Riccitiello mentioned that there will be a new installment to American McGee's Alice series this year. As I was writing this, EA hit our inbox with a press release which clarifies that the title will come to Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC in 2009. It's being developed by McGee's Shanghai-based Spicy Horse studio, most recently responsible for the GameTap-episodic-exclusive, Grimm.

Originally released in 2000 for PCs, Alice was a third-person action title that was a twisted take on the Alice in Wonderland story through the eyes of game designer American McGee. Word of the title being spun off into a film (and being ported to the consoles) never quite panned out. Perhaps this sequel will give the series some much-needed new life.

EA AND SPICY HORSE RETURN TO WONDERLAND

American McGee and EA Reunite For the Next Chapter in EA's Classic Alice Franchise



Guildford, UK. – February 19, 2009 – Electronic Arts Inc (NASDAQ: ERTS) and Spicy Horse today announced that they have signed a publishing deal for an all-new title based on EA’s 2000 classic, American McGee’s Alice™. The game reunites EA with American McGee, the creative visionary behind the original game. The new title is in development for the PC, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system and Xbox 360® video game console.



“This new project is a dream come true for me and the fans who’ve kept the Alice flame alive,” said American McGee, senior creative director at Spicy Horse. “EA gave us creative latitude and support on the original game which resulted in something beautiful and daring. This trip through the looking glass promises to be even more exciting.”



“EA Partners is thrilled to team up with American McGee and Spicy Horse on the next installment of the Alice franchise,” said David DeMartini, senior vice president and general manager of EA Partners. “American McGee’s interpretation of Alice was an instant classic, and EA Partners is ready to help him bring his innovative vision for the franchise to even darker, more exciting places.”



Spicy Horse was represented in the deal by CAA and Weissman Wolff.

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