GameSpy and Epic Games have agreed to a deal which will see GameSpy’s multiplayer technology incorporated into Epic’s upcoming Unreal Tournament 3.
The GameSpy multiplayer components, which include matchmaking software, in- and out-of-game messaging, VoIP communications, deep player statistics and a leaderboard and ranking system, will be a part of both the PC and PlayStation 3 versions of the game. A prior arrangement between Epic and GameSpy had already led to the inclusion of GameSpy multiplayer technology in Epic’s popular Unreal Engine 3 software.
“Partnering with GameSpy for the second time and expanding on our IPP relationship furthers our commitment to including the highest level of online technology into our videogames,” said Epic Vice President Mark Rein. “Unreal Tournament 3 is a leader in online gaming, and we will continue to push boundaries and technology to develop a game that satisfies the high expectations of our franchise fans.”
Jamie Berger, Senior Vice President at GameSpy parent IGN added, “GameSpy is excited to expand our existing relationship with Epic Games and align ourselves with Unreal Tournament 3. As our technology continues to expand and evolve with next-generation consoles, we will continue to work with developers to provide an ease and expertise when it comes to online gaming technology.”
Unreal Tournament 3 is scheduled for a November 19 release for the PC, with a PlayStation 3 version to follow soon after. An Xbox 360 version is expected to ship in early 2008, while a date for a Mac OS X version has not been announced.
