Namco Networks Announces Popeye for Cellphones
Namco Networks continues their classic gaming streak with yet another memorable arcade hit, Popeye. The game is now available on selected Nextel and Sprint phones directly from the Namco Games website. In addition Namco is running a sweepstakes that will make 75 lucky winners happy…
In case you don’t remember this 80’s classic, here’s a quick recap of the gameplay: Players control Popeye as he tries to collect Olive Oyl’s love tokens (hearts, musical notes, floating letters) while trying to avoid Bluto’s punches and occasional bottles tossed by the Sea Hag. Grabbing a can of Spinach allows Popeye to punch Bluto off the screen, allowing him to collect items unmolested for a short time. The mobile-optimized update includes both the original arcade version of the game as well as an enhanced mode with bonus game play. The enhanced mode features all-new graphics, two brand new rounds (“A Dream Walking” round and “Spinach Run” bonus round), and additional characters, including cameos by Eugene the Jeep and Bernice the Whiffle Hen. Points earned throughout the game can be redeemed for downloadable Popeye comics on selected mobile phones.
“As a well-known brand seen in everything from DVDs, comics, merchandise, and even theme park attractions, Popeye is a character that appeals to all ages,” said Scott Rubin, vice president of sales and marketing for Namco Networks. “By coupling this evergreen brand and character with addictive game play, we are bringing a fun and entertaining mobile game to a mass-market audience based on a property and storyline that everyone knows and loves.”
As for that sweepstakes, the prize is pretty cool if you’re a fan of the spinach slingin’ sailor: 75 winners will win the authorized edition DVD four-disc set, Popeye The Sailor: 1933-1938 Volume 1, distributed by Warner Home Video. The sweepstakes will run from October 16 until November 30. To enter, Sprint customers can access the game’s home page on the Sprint wireless Web or by texting the word ‘popeye’ to 26262 on a Sprint phone (standard text and data rates apply). Customers can check out the game and submit their phone number to gain an entry into the sweepstakes. For the official rules and an alternate method of entry, click on over to the official Sweepstakes site.
