‘Bakugan’ video game finally rolling to retail

Anyone with young boys — myself included — is likely aware of the mega-popular Bakugan toy franchise from Spin Master, based on the hit animated television series of the same name. Activision Publishing has just announced the first Bakugan video game will be available this fall for the Nintendo Wii and DS, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 2/3.

Bakugan follows the heroics of Dan and his friends, as they battle their Bakugan Brawlers against creatures to save the planet of Vestroia (and, ultimately, Earth) from destruction. The toys mostly involve marble-like spheres that open to reveal robotic fighters inside, along with collectible game cards. The TV series airs on the Cartoon Network in the United States and Teletoon in Canada.

“Ever since Bakugan exploded in popularity, players have been clamouring for a video game version,” says Doug Murphy, president of Nelvana and general manager of Corus Kids, in a company statement.

(If you're wondering if that's true, just ask a six-year-old.)

Currently in development by Japanese studio NOW Production, the video games transform the colourful anime-style cartoon into an action brawler with Pokémon-like turn-based battles, multiplayer options and the ability to create your own custom Bakugan fighters.