Simutronics today announced a new licensing agreement for its groundbreaking HeroEngine with developer Pitch Black Games. The Chandler, Arizona based developer is currently developing a next-gen sci-fi massively multiplayer online game. HeroEngine, chosen for its ability to provide a collaborative development environment, enables Pitch Black Games to develop its MMO in real-time from multiple locations across the globe.
The game has been in development for over a year and Pitch Black has licensed an enormous amount of technology in order to hit the ground running. "We don’t want to spend years creating new technology. We have a phenomenal game design and we want to concentrate our efforts on creating a new, unique and unforgettable experience for players. The HeroEngine enabled us to do this," explained Warren Weems, President of Pitch Black Games.

"With the length of the development cycle continually coming under closer examination, we'll continue to see an even greater adoption of HeroEngine," stated Neil Harris, President of HeroEngine. "With the collaborative nature of the engine and its accompanying toolset, Pitch Black’s development cycle is drastically reduced freeing up resources to focus on the core gameplay, developing the storyline and bringing the final product to market more quickly."

HeroEngine has recently been licensed for a variety of projects including a virtual world with Enne Entertainment, a multi-title deal with a US publisher, virtual worlds with government and non-profit applications for a European organization, and unannounced projects from startups and major studios in China, Europe and the US. Details on these projects will be announced in the coming months. Previously announced HeroEngine licensees include BioWare’s Star Wars: The Old Republic game and a stealth project from ZeniMax Online Studios.