New BACK TO THE FUTURE Game in Development
A new video game based on the popular Back to the Future films is reportedly in progress, according to Bob Gale, the writer of the movies. Additionally, plans are in place to commemorate the franchise’s 40th anniversary this year.
Over the years, there have been discussions about whether a new installment in the Back to the Future series should be created. Personally, I think the franchise should remain untouched without Michael J. Fox. However, I believe that adaptations or expansions of the story through alternative mediums like video games would be acceptable. It seems I am not alone in this sentiment.
Talking to Cleveland.com, Bob Gale hinted at the development of a new video game centered around the Back to the Future franchise. Gale was enthusiastic about this project but was limited in what he could divulge at this stage.
While this prospective game wouldn’t mark the first video game featuring Back to the Future, it seems to be a project in the works with much promise. Back in 2010, Telltale Games produced an episode graphic adventure, known as Back to the Future: The Game, in celebration of the films’ 30th anniversary. Gale worked closely with Telltale during the game’s creation, setting the storyline six months after Back to the Future III. In this sequel, players take on the role of Marty, embarking on a new adventure to manipulate time:
“Six months after Back to the Future Part III, the DeLorean time machine mysteriously returns to Hill Valley – driverless! Marty McFly must once again go back in time, or else the space-time continuum will be forever unraveled!”
Both Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd granted permission to use their likeness for the game’s main characters, Marty McFly and Doc Brown, respectively. While Lloyd reprised his role as Doc, A.J. LoCascio lent his voice as Marty. Although Fox didn’t play a significant role in the game, he did make brief cameo appearances portraying future versions of Marty McFly and his forefather in the final episode.
Extensively a narrative adventure, the game incorporated simplistic gameplay involving exploration and puzzle-solving, and garnered positive reviews. Telltale’s success soared with this franchise until the introduction of The Walking Dead: The Game.
Gale teased additional exciting announcements in line with the upcoming 40th anniversary of the Back to the Future film franchise, including plans for events and a documentary detailing the making of the musical adaptation.