I’m an 80’s baby, which means the computer games I grew up on were a little bit different. In school we had edutainment from the wonderful MECC library, and at home on early Apple computers and PC’s we had classics like Oregon Trail and one of my favorites, the Carmen Sandiego series. Playing detective hid the fact that I was learning things – whether I was chasing the titular red-hatted thief through the world, the USA, or even through time. I still load up the wayback machine to play the classic game and relive my junior Gumshoe days.
Now it looks like I’ll be able to experience that nostalgia early next year with the re-release coming from HarperCollins Productions and Gameloft for the franchise’s 40th anniversary, using the original IP and the world created in the Netflix animated series. Check out the below press release outlining the upcoming multiplatform release (with thankfully, no in-game purchases needed):
PARIS, FRANCE — September 10, 2024 — Gameloft, and HarperCollins Productions, an award-winning media production company within HarperCollins Publishers, are excited to announce their upcoming title and the return of the iconic master thief – Carmen Sandiego. The infamous globetrotter is back with the first, major relaunch of this beloved game, poised to debut exclusively on Netflix, followed by Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, and Steam later in Q1 of 2025. Carmen Sandiego marks the latest milestone in Gameloft’s expansion into cross-platform gaming, following the resounding success of their previous titles: Disney Dreamlight Valley, Disney Speedstorm, and The Oregon Trail, which was also co-produced with HarperCollins Productions.
This game launch marks another big moment of growth in the Carmen Sandiego franchise. Since the 1980s, Carmen Sandiego has fascinated fans worldwide as they tried to capture her. In 2019, Carmen returned in the Emmy and Annie award-winning animated series on Netflix produced by HarperCollins Productions along with a robust publishing program of 10 books. A live-action Carmen Sandiego movie is also in development at Netflix. The movie will be the first major live action story featuring the world’s greatest thief.
Just in time for her 40th anniversary, Carmen’s iconic legacy continues with an all-new gaming adventure set to intrigue gumshoes of all ages in 2025. The original 1985 game, “Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?” introduced her as the main antagonist, leading a global syndicate of criminals known as VILE. In an exhilarating twist, players will now don the signature red coat and hat of Carmen Sandiego and play as her for the very first time. Players will experience the thrill of being the notorious super thief as they navigate a world of espionage, utilize high-tech gadgets, and ultimately capture VILE.
The Carmen Sandiego game will enable players to traverse the globe, immersing themselves in vibrant cultures while visiting iconic cities and landmarks. From the bustling streets of Rio de Janeiro to the picturesque shrines in Tokyo, every corner of the world becomes their playground as they unravel elaborate capers and bring VILE’s most elusive criminals to justice. Every decision players make will shape the outcome as they compile dossiers and race against the clock to foil VILE’s nefarious plans. Whether playing through story-driven campaigns or classic modes, this modernized Carmen Sandiego experience promises to enthrall both new and long-time fans alike.
Carmen Sandiego is set to be a single-player premium puzzle adventure game, with no in-game purchases or online play. Netflix members with iOS and Android devices will be able to play Carmen Sandiego through the Netflix mobile app.
“The character of Carmen Sandiego has been beloved by generations, and for many, it was an introduction to countries around the world. Now for the first time, players get to be Carmen – sneaking into locations, gathering clues, and pulling off heists, – as they experience on the ground immersive real-world locations. Carmen Sandiego’s overarching theme – to experience and celebrate all cultures – has never been more important and more fun.” – Caroline Fraser, Head of HarperCollins Productions
“It is such an honor to write a new chapter of the adventures of Carmen Sandiego and bring to life again this iconic, beloved character. We’re incredibly proud of what our team has achieved as we meticulously honored the franchise’s legacy, staying true to its core elements while introducing fresh, innovative features. Our goal was to create an experience that feels both nostalgically familiar and excitingly new and we can’t wait for longstanding fans and new players alike to dive in and see the love and effort we’ve invested in every detail.” – Manea Castet, Studio Manager, Gameloft Brisbane.
Take a look at the trailer below, and get more details on the game’s official website here.
