November 2^nd, 2005 (12:43pm) - Twentieth Century Fox Television and Gracie Films announced today they’ve made a long-term deal with EA concerning the development rights to multiple videogame titles based on the the Simpsons.

EA will work closely with the television studio’s licensing and merchandising division, Gracie Films and the show’s writers to create a game for unspecified next generation videogame systems.

Since the first game of the multi-game deal will come out on next generation systems, it’s not surprising that no release date has been nailed down.

"This is a great opportunity for our talented development team to collaborate with the brilliant minds of the Simpsons to bring original Simpsons material to videogame fans," said Nick Earl, Vice President and General Manager, EA Redwood Shores Studio. "This is something EA’s been interested in for years and now game development and technology is at a place where the Simpsons characters and world will really come alive in these games."

"The Simpsons is our crown jewel and with every additional episode is creating a legacy of creativity and success unmatched in this industry," commented Twentieth Century Fox President Gary Newman. "Its huge appeal among teens and young adults coupled with its seemingly limitless universe of memorable characters makes it a natural fit for videogaming, and we believe Electronic Arts is exactly the right creative partner to bring Springfield to life in this medium."

The Simpsons Executive Producer James L. Brooks, spoke on behalf of Gracie Films, and amusingly stated they’re in it for the free EA games.