RIYADH: Manga Productions, a subsidiary of Mohammed bin Salman Foundation, also known as Misk, has signed an agreement with Microids to publish and distribute the “Smurfs Kart” video game.

This agreement grants full rights for Manga Productions to publish and distribute the new game, inspired by the famous “Smurfs” series, in the MENA region.

Manga Productions will provide localized content through its Saudi talents to enhance the overall audience experience in the Arab world. “Smurfs Kart” will be available for players on Aug. 22, on PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, as well as on PCs.

In “Smurf Karts,” players can immerse themselves in a racing game with stunning graphics and an interactive environment. The game offers many items and tools to help players gain an edge during races, and it can be played alone, competitively or cooperatively with up to four players.

Players can choose from their favorite characters, each with distinctive abilities and skills, and select their racing car to compete on 12 different tracks throughout the world of the Smurfs, including in the village, the forest, the dam and the swamps.

Essam Bukhary, CEO of Manga Productions in Saudi Arabia, confirmed the strengthening of the partnership with Microids by introducing an exceptional game based on the popular Smurfs franchise.

“This collaboration aims to achieve a positive impact in the gaming industry in the Arab world, and to Arabize the content of global games through our Saudi talents,” he said.

Stephane Longeard, CEO of Microids said: “The announcement of our collaboration with Manga Productions to publish and distribute “Smurfs Kart” aims to provide high-quality content that resonates with fans worldwide. It also aligns perfectly with our values and goals. We look forward to expanding the reach of our ‘Smurfs Kart’ game to our audiences in the MENA region through Manga Productions and achieving momentous success together in delivering unique experiences for all.”

The collaboration between Manga and Microids coincides with the 65th anniversary of the creation of the Smurfs — which made their debut in 1958 — by the Belgian artist and producer Pierre Culliford. The “Smurfs” animated TV series was produced in 1981, with 272 episodes being broadcast and subtitled into 30 different languages, contributing to the increase of the popularity of the Smurfs globally.