The worldwide hit video game “Guitar Hero” could become a reality TV show and/or a real-life concert tour, people familiar with the discussions said Thursday. “Hero” is from Activision Blizzard, a leading video game publisher that aims to turn some of its games into TV and film properties. Activision's cross-platform interests don't end at “Hero”; discussions are under way to turn the “World of Warcraft” and “Call of Duty” video games into movies. “They are being talked about for the big screen,” said one person with knowledge of the details. In an interview before Thursday's quarterly earnings conference call, Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick wouldn't comment on the movie speculation. But asked about the “Hero” franchise, he said, “It might make for a good TV show or a good concert tour.” “Hero” and “Duty” were two of the top five best-selling franchises across all video game platforms in Europe and the US during the first quarter. “World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King” was the top PC game, in terms of revenue, in the US. Kotick added that video games, especially family-friendly “Hero,” are “capturing leisure time away from TV and film.” Activision Blizzard this year will release several new “Guitar Hero” games including “DJ Hero,” which uses a turntable controller for hip-hop, Motown and other dance music, and “Band Hero,” which caters to younger players and features top-40 hits. “Guitar Hero: Van Halen” and “Guitar Hero: Smash Hits” also are set for release.
