January 28^th, 2005 (12:53am) - Konami Digital Entertainment - America announced plans to publish Death, Jr., one of the most highly anticipated titles for the forthcoming PSP. Already creating a buzz in the videogame industry for its surprising amount of visual effects, including a unique particle-effect system and sophisticated 3D engine which provide some of the best graphics on the PSP, Death, Jr. is emerging as a must-have title for SCEA’S new portable gaming system.

"Death, Jr. is a groundbreaking title for the new PSP handheld system and a perfect compliment to the Konami catalog of video games," said Dennis Lee, product manager at Konami Digital Entertainment - America. "Death, Jr.’s unique character design and engaging storyline about the mischievous son of the Grim Reaper is a fresh and original concept that has never been approached before and will appeal to a wide variety of gamers."

Developed by Backbone Entertainment, Death, Jr., seamlessly blends first-person shooter elements with third-person platforming action that serves up a large dose of intense gameplay and weapon-heavy combat. The game stars Death, Jr., a mischievous youngster who is armed with a mighty scythe, which serves as both a weapon and unique platforming tool.

Death, Jr. embarks with his friends on a school field trip to the local museum. When the group sneaks away to explore on their own, they unwittingly unleash an ancient evil force from a mysterious locked box. Facing near insurmountable odds and the threat of being grounded and sent to military school, Death, Jr. and his pals must fight hoards of demons and their wicked master Moloch through the museum and surrounding town before anyone else finds out.

In order to avoid being punished for his mischief, and to save his friends from eternal suffering at the hands of Moloch, Death, Jr. must eliminate the evil demon scourge that has taken over the town. Armed with his scythe and an arsenal of guns and explosives, Death, Jr. will battle through numerous action-filled levels towards a final confrontation with Moloch himself.

"We’re thrilled to be working with Konami," said Andrew Ayre, President of Backbone Entertainment. "Konami’s experience in successfully launching new franchise titles is second to none, and we can’t imagine a better publishing partner on Death, Jr."

Death Jr. is well on its way to becoming a cross-media phenomenon. In addition to being one of the first announced titles for the PSP, Death, Jr. has a comic book published by Image Comics, a toy and collectibles line by Gentle Giant and a forthcoming movie currently in production.