Tintin videogame arrives ahead of Spielberg film

Beloved comic book boy reporter Tintin is leaping on to videogame consoles ahead of the US release of a film by Hollywood powerhouse Steven Spielberg. Ubisoft released "The Adventures of Tintin: The Game" in North America with versions tailored for play on all major videogame consoles as well as personal computers and handheld Nintendo 3DS devices. The title, which hit US store shelves on Tuesday, is based on an animated feature film directed by Spielberg and due for release here in two weeks after having debuted in other countries. Versions of the videogame can be played using motion control capabilities of Kinect for Xbox 360 or the Move accessory for PlayStation 3 consoles, according to Ubisoft. Story mode closely follows the film's plotline with a blend of adventure, exploration, puzzle-solving, and Tintin-style combat with weapons such as beach balls and umbrellas. "Players will embody Tintin, the hero and intrepid reporter, and other main characters each having its own personality and unique skills," Ubisoft said. "Additional sidekicks will also appear when help is needed." Cooperative play for multiple players is set in character Captain Haddock's dream world, with teamwork required to solve mysteries and overcome challenges. Co-produced by "Lord of the Rings" director Peter Jackson, who will direct two sequels to Spielberg's "Tintin", the movie 30 years in the making is billed in the director's own words as a kind of "Indiana Jones for kids." Created in 1929 by Herge, whose real name was Georges Remi and who was then in his early 20s, Tintin and his colorful companions have achieved cult status for millions worldwide.