If there is a sci-fi show that has been plagued by as much trouble as Stargate when it comes to getting their own game it would have to be the beloved Firefly series. Initial attempts to deliver a Firefly Online MMORPG came to a premature end with Multiverse, and the state of the fan-made Firefly Universe from DarkCryo seems to still be a bit uncertain. But another developer has now partnered with Fox to try and deliver a new Firefly Online experience. But it may not be what some fans were hoping for.

Today at San Diego Comic-Con, Spark Plug Games revealed that they will be the next developer to take on the project. In some ways this move parallels events with the Stargate series in which the previous focus of creating the disaster that was the now cancelled Stargate Worlds MMOG, paving the way for a new developer to craft a mobile game for the series instead with Stargate SG-1: Unleashed. In much the same way, the new Firefly Online will also be launched on iOS and Android devices initially.

Described as “a multi-user, social online role-playing game,” Firefly Online will allow players to take on the role of a captain to recruit a crew and take on jobs within the Firefly universe to do whatever it takes to keep flying. Players will be able to take on jobs and missions, trade, and compete against other players. Firefly Online is scheduled to launch in summer 2014.

Check out the trailer and press release below and visit the Firefly Online website to learn more.

Just on an interesting thing to note since I made the Stargate comparison above. The president of Spark Plug Games is named John O’Neill. People named John are often referred to as Jack, thus he’s technically named Jack O’Neill, two Ls. You Stargate fans will piece that one together.

Firefly Online : Cult Hit Series to Get Officially Licensed Multiplayer Online Role - Playing Game

LOS ANGELES — July 17 , 2013 — Fox Digital Entertainment (FDE) and QMx Interactive Inc. (QMXi ) , a developer of mobile games and apps, are heading back to the Verse of the much beloved cult hit TV series Firefly, announcing today the first officially licensed video game, titled Firefly Online.

Firefly Online (FFO) is a multi-user, social online role-playing game that will initially be available for smartphones and tablets, including those based on iOS and Android operating systems.

Players take on the role of a ship captain as they hire a crew and lead missions , while trading with and competing against millions of other players like themselves. Much like the crew of Serenity, the Firefly-class transport ship featured in the original show, players must do whatever it takes to survive in the Verse: find a crew, find a job and keep flying.

Firefly Online is currently in development by QMXi and Spark Plug Games, an independent video game studio. The game is expected to be released during the summer of 2014.

“ At QMx, we know first hand how great and powerful a franchise Firefly is and how mighty the Browncoats are,” said Andy Gore , CEO of QMXi and Quantum Mechanix Inc., which produces official collectibles and replicas for Firefly.

“It has always been our mission to bring the Verse to life for our customers in every way possible. The idea of creating an interactive experience where fans can have their own Firefly adventures--well, that’s just too shiny for words,” Gore said.

“We are thrille d to be partnering with QMx on Firefly Online,” said Matt McMahon, VP of Mobile for Fox Digital Entertainment. “QMx has a long and successful history with Firefly and we couldn’t think of a better partner to make a truly innovative game that will stand up in the Verse and to its passionate fans.”

“When we were first approached with this challenge, we realized that Firefly is unique among shows and movies, so only a unique game experience could do it justice,” said John O’Neill, President of Spark Plug Games.

“Firefly Online , while having a lot of familiar game elements, will be like no game you’ve ever experienced,” added O’Neill.

Firefly Online players will play a captain in the Verse that’s struggling to get by, just like Capt. Mal Reynolds from the show, and dive in the following features :

• Create a crew, customize a shiny ship and explore the Verse.
• Aim to misbehave in space and planet - side adventures.
• Pick-up and play anywhere with cross-platform, cross-device game play support.
• Engage with unique social features connecting Firefly fans.

To sign up for more information or pre register for the game, please visit www.KeepFlying.com.

Savvy consumers and Firefly fans should keep an eye out for first-look game content, exclusive collectibles tied to the game, and more goodness yet to come by signing up for:

• The QMx Insider newsletter http://insider.quantummechanix.com/
• Firefly Online (FFO) on Twitter http://twitter.com/firefly_game/
• Firefly Online (FFO) on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/fireflyonlinegame

FIREFLY™ & © 2013 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

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About Fox Digital Entertainment Fox Digital Entertainment

(FDE) is a division of 20th Century Fox that is dedicated to creating new and innovative content for emerging distribution channels. FDE develops and produces video , applications and games based on both original concepts and extensions of existing Fox intellectual property. The group has produced a number of award - winning products, including THE SIMPSONS TAPPED OUT, ICE AGE VILLAGE, ANGRY BIRDS RIO and GLEE KARAOKE.

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About QMx Interactive Inc.

QMx Interactive brings together programming wizards, brilliant artists and innovative digital alchemists with just one aim: to create mobile apps of unparalleled function, design and originality. Our goal is to create experiences that amaze, delight and push the boundaries of what's possible. QMx Interactive is part of the Quantum Mechanix Strategic Business Alliance.

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About Spark Plug Games

Spark Plug Games is an independent games developer focused on creating interactive products for social, mobile, tablet and console markets. The team embraces the slogan “We ignite fun!” which expresses a desire to create high quality products with strong entertainment value and a passion for game development. Founded in 2008 and based out of Cary, North Carolina, the SPG team has already built over 60 products and continues to develop new brands while working with leading industry partners. For more information, please visit www.sparkpluggames.com.

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For more information on Firefly Online, please visit http://www.KeepFlying.com .