Microids have announced they and IMPS have signed on a deal to publish a video game based on The Smurfs.

The game will be an 3D action-adventure game developed by OSome Studio, with an original story. There may also be multiplayer elements, as the announcement states “Alone or with friends, gamers will be able to dive in this exclusive adventure alongside the most iconic characters of this IP.”

The Smurfs began as a Belgium comic in 1958 by Peyo, the pen name of Pierre Culliford. The stories followed the lives of small blue creatures known as Smurfs, and their adventures of danger and discovery.

There was an animated series in the 1980s and early 90s, and movies in the 2010s (and a new film set for 2021). All the while the comic still runs to this day. IMPS, along with LAFIG, are the worldwide licencors of The Smurfs. 

As of 2008 (during the series 50th anniversary), the comics had sold 25 million copies, in 25 different languages. Microids claim that The Smurfs have a 95% awareness level worldwide.

“We are delighted for concluding this new partnership with IMPS,” stated Microids Vice-president Elliot Grassiano. “Thanks to this trans-generational license and the talent of OSome Studio, a long time Microids partner studio which worked on several family games, we are confident in bringing together all gamers in the wonderful world of the Smurfs.”

“The worldwide success met by the Smurfs will also allow us to increase our brand awareness overseas and position Microids as a major player internationally,” Grassiano concluded.

IMPs president, founded, and daughter of Peyo Véronique Culliford stated “I am very happy about this beautiful partnership, video games have always been my passion, because they combine playfulness and often learning.”

In earlier news, Microids also announced that a The Adventures of Tintin video game was in development.