JK Rowling’s first big presence in the video game world will be ready just in time for the holidays.Still riding high on the tidal wave of her last seven books (which she, and her great-great-grandchildren, will be doing for the rest of their lives), Rowling’s next big project is the “Book of Spells,” which is a spin-off of sorts based on the Harry Potter universe.
The unique thing about this book, though, is that it’s designed for use with the PS3. It is the flagship title for Sony’s new Wonderbook platform, which aims to bring the world of augmented reality to the world of literature.
Wonderbook interacts with the PS3’s Playstation Eye camera and Playstation Move controller. So when you place the book down on the floor, it comes to life on the TV in front of you. With Book of Spells, users will be able to use the Move controller as a magic wand while flipping through the book to learn to spells.
When it was revealed at E3, Rowlings released a quote, saying, “Wonderbook: Book of Spells is the closest a Muggle can come to a real spellbook. I’ve loved working with Sony’s creative team to bring my spells, and some of the history behind them, to life. This is an extraordinary device that offers a reading experience like no other.”
Rowling has not, however, appeared in person to promote the Wonderbook.
Nevertheless, she’s sure to gain a great deal of money from the new project. When it launches, the price point will be $40. A bundle that includes the Playstation Eye and Playstation Move will be available for $80.
