Avatar Game Demo Impressions + John Landau Interview

Michael here.  The Avatar game demo at Ubisoft's booth is the hottest ticket at E3 this year.  It's behind closed doors, invitation-only, and the security, as per everything Avatar related, is super tight.  According to Entertainment Weekly, "Purses, satchels and picture-taking cell phones had to be checked."

This high level of precaution might also have something to do with the fact that, as reported by IGN, "concept art was hanging from the wall, showing off a few alien plants and animals. More art was scrolling on the massive 103 inch television being used to demo the game."  Damn, I wish I could have been there.

Another surprise has been that John Landau has been personally on hand at each demo session to talk about the game.  And he even brought along his Titanic oscar!

Check out a video interview that Midnight Update did with Landau below.  The Landau portion of the video starts at the 10 minute mark:

The game seems to be great.  The third person perspective was a great choice, and I love how the story is separate from the film's storyline while at the same time introducing new ideas that impressed Cameron so much he is considering them for sequels. Ubisoft has invested a huge amount of time, money, and R&D into creating the best possible gaming experience.  And it seems that the impressions so far are filled with excitement for what Cameron and Ubisoft have created.

Read below for multiple in-depth impressions of the game:

Entertainment Weekly impressions

IGN impressions

Gamespot impressions

1Up impressions

NowGamer impressions

G4TV impressions

The Times Online impressions

BBC impressions

Finally, here is a peek at the some of the gameplay and features from the game, as posted to the game's recently launched official Facebook page.  Become a fan here!

• Immerse yourself in James Cameron’s world.
Peer deep into the heart of Pandora and see James Cameron’s universe, from your own perspective.

• Engage in a massive conflict between two worlds.
Fight for you cause; RDA or Na’vi. Customize more than 60 RDA and Na’vi weapons, combined. Choose your skills: 20 for each clan. Drive all of the vehicles and ride the animals. Expand the battleground in online multiplayer.

• Develop your character and acquire new skills
Create your very own character and acquire skills as you progress through the game.

Read the impressions articles for much more detail on the game.  There's some great stuff there!