Electronic Arts, an American developer, marketer and distributor of computer and video games, and Endemol, a television production company, are working together to produce "a new digital entertainment concept" called Virtual Me, which would allow people to participate in virtual version of the reality show Big Brother.

With the intention to bring together television pleasure and videogames, Virtual Me would allow Big Brother fans to create avatars at VirtualMe.com, which is scheduled to launch in the next few months, and allow people to get involved in the virtual version of the program.

"Virtual Me combines cutting edge avatar creation technology from EA with popular TV formats from Endemol to give consumers a breakthrough way to meet, compete and socialize in online digital worlds. Avatar creation takes a leap forward with a high performing, easy-to-use tool that creates astonishingly life-like cyber-clones, with uniquely customized appearances and identities," EA has stated.

Virtual Me will also showcase other reality talent and game shows like Deal or No Deal but will start off with Big Brother, a reality show that features a bunch of strangers residing in one isolated house and put through several challenges. Dealing with people from different walks of life, housemates must avoid being voted off in order to remain on the program and win the cash prize.

"With Virtual Me we are at the forefront of a new, hybrid form of entertainment that takes gaming beyond the console. Endemol is a great partner to help us bring together the best of TV and video games for an offering that can appeal to mass market audiences and change the face of entertainment", Gerhard Florin, EA International's executive VP and general manager, said.

-Kris De Leon, BuddyTV Staff Columnist

Source: Computerandvideogames.com