Michael Jackson MMOG coming next year

Well, it was fairly predictable that Michael Jackson's Estate would look for other avenues of revenue in which to keep the King of Pop's legacy relevant, but we certainly didn't expect this; they are teaming up with SEE Virtual Worlds to bring us a massively multiplayer online virtual world set to launch in late 2011, that celebrates Jackson's life as "...an artist and a humanitarian." Hmm.

Apparently, this is just the first of a virtual reality universe of connected planets tied to licensed franchises produced by SEE Virtual Worlds. In a gushing press release, it was announced that: "The new planet, currently slated for launch next year, will be an immersive virtual space themed after iconic visuals drawn from Michael's music, his life, and the global issues that concerned him. At its core, Planet Michael is a massive social gaming experience that will allow everyone...to connect and engage in collaborative in-game activities. Entire continents will be created that will celebrate Michael's unique genius in a way that underscores his place as the greatest artist of all time."

Martin Biallas, CEO of SEE Virtual Worlds, said: "one of our primary goals was to build an interactive environment where fans from all over the world come together to affirm Michael's life-long dedication to fostering global friendships. In building a space worthy of those global connections, we envisioned a magical, enjoyable place that will capture that zest for fun and life that was at Michael's very core."

Planet Michael is one of the first themed planets that SEE Virtual Worlds will publish for the Entropia Universe, a vast dynamic 3D environment created and provided to end users by MindArk PE AB. The Entropia Universe features several existing planets and combines a "revolutionary" cash economy with "cutting-edge" graphics. Although Planet Michael is a free-to-download world without monthly subscription fees, the real world in-game economy features gameplay monetization that allows players to take on dozens of different occupations and, in certain instances, contribute to a charitable cause at the same time.

The news of subscrition fees means that it may be costly, however, so it'll be interesting to see just how interactive the game is, or whether you simply put in a wad of cash a month to join other MJ lovers in a MMOG. But, we're willing to see if it turns out to be the first in many of celebrity-themed MMOGs, as this could be a lucrative business for many stars and their estates, and a chance for younger fans to connect with Jackson, so to speak.