New details on Sega's videogame tie-in with movie The Golden Compass, which is based on the first book in Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy, have emerged. Sega's game sticks closely to the screenplay adaptation of the novel. Players will assume the role of the trilogy's main character Lyra as well as Iorek Byrnison, a warrior polar bear whom Lyra befriends during her adventure. Accompanied by her demon Pantalaimon, Lyra's adventures begin when she goes in search of a friend kidnapped by a feared and mysterious outfit that children call The Gobblers...

Additional new details reveal that the major environments from the movie will feature as well as areas unique to the game and that key actors - such as Daniel Craig who plays Lyra's father Lord Asriel - will be lending their likenesses to in-game characters.

"As Lyra, players will use their demon and collaborate with in-game characters, collecting special items in order to explore, evade, and deceive their way through confrontations with the Gobblers, the Magisterium, and the horribly dangerous spy fly to find her friend," Sega has explained. "They can also do battle as Iorek with special attacks and a riding mechanic as he protects Lyra during the journey."

Lyra's alethiometer, a compass-like device that determines truths, is used to unlock secrets and mini-games.

The Golden Compass is due out at the end of the year on Xbox 360, PS3, PC, Wii, PS2, PSP and DS. All versions except DS are being developed by Shiny Entertainment. The Golden Compass on DS is being handled by A2M.

February 27, 2007