September 15^th, 2005 (12:16pm) - SEGA has announced that it will be partnering with esteemed racing developer Bizarre Creations to create an original next-generation video game franchise. Specific details regarding the type of game it will be, it’s platform(s) of development, and tentative release have not been revealed at the present time.

Under the terms of the worldwide exclusive deal, SEGA will manage all marketing and distribution activities and work with Bizarre in the ongoing production of the Developer’s latest innovative design. This agreement further underscores SEGA’s emphasis on Western markets as evidenced by recent SEGA deals with external developers Silicon Knights, Petroglyph, Secret Level, Pseudo Interactive, Sports Interactive, and Monolith.

"We are actively seeking partnerships with the world’s best developers to create brand new franchises and re-create new games from existing SEGA IP," said Naoya Tsurumi, CEO of SEGA America and SEGA Europe. "We could not be happier that Bizarre Creations, a world-leader in successfully combining gameplay and technology, chose SEGA as their publishing partner to create a multi-platform blockbuster for the next-generation."

"We are privileged to be working with SEGA again," said Martyn Chudley, Managing Director of Bizarre Creations. "With their passion for games and forward-thinking approach, they are the ideal partner to make the most of our new concept."

Bizarre Creations is known for developing the games in the hugely popular Project Gotham Racing series, which includes the Xbox 360’s most stellar looking video game, Project Gotham Racing 3.