There has been many incantations of a live action version based on the MYST video game series, from a movies, to a series on the SciFi Channel. Well, it’s finally happening.
MYST is a graphic adventure puzzle video game was developed by Cyan, Inc. The Miller brothers began working on MYST in 1991 and released it in 1993. The game puts the player in the role of the Stranger. The player uses special books written by an artisan and explorer named Atrus. The player must find and follow clues that unlock different self-contained mini-worlds called “ages”. Upon release, MYST was a surprise hit and was the best-selling PC game until 2002. The game lead to numerous sequels, remakes, and spin-offs.
“We are very excited to see his script. … We’ve been working closely with Legendary to find a partner that shares our passion for a show based on MYST. Hulu’s excitement about this project exceeded our expectations. They’re committed to raising the bar in this burgeoning new arena, and we’re thrilled to be partnering with them. We’re willing to give up (some control) of the project. We realized we are good at games, and Legendary is good at what they do.”
Burbank, California-based Legendary Pictures has announced it has agreed to a deal with Spokane, Washington Cyan Worlds, to develop a video version of the location transcending story on which the game is based. Although Rand Miller, CEO of Cyan Worlds, said his company will not be directly involved in the production, they will still provide some input.
“We’ve been working closely with Legendary to find a partner that shares our passion for a show based on Myst,” said Rand Miller in a statement. “Hulu’s excitement about this project exceeded our expectations. They’re committed to raising the bar in this burgeoning new arena, and we’re thrilled to be partnering with them.”
Cyan has been hard at work on their latest game Obduction, a spiritual successor to MYST, which was funded through Kickstarter. If you have your hopes up for another MYST game, you may be in luck, as they are dropping some hints.
“Cyan’s goal in working with Legendary is not just to create a compelling TV drama but to develop a true transmedia product that will include a companion video game that extends the story across both media. Seventy percent of tablet owners use their device while watching TV at least several times a week. Cyan sees the potential to push the boundaries of interactive storytelling to a new level.”
