Following the recently announced deal with DreamWorks, THQ has revealed another licensing agreement that would probably bring them even closer to the gamers' hearts: Marvel Entertainment agreed to allow the company to create titles using their superheros and universe, with the first title, called Marvel Super Hero Squad, to be released during the fall of 2009. And, as the title suggests, this licensing agreement will allow THQ to develop video games based on the kid-friendly franchise for all the next-gen consoles, as well as PC systems.

As expected, THQ is really excited about this recently signed deal which, according to them, will strengthen even further their position of developers for kids: "Marvel is one of the true crown jewels in the entertainment industry and we are thrilled at the prospect of both building the Marvel Super Hero Squad brand and further developing our relationship with Marvel," said Brian Farrell, president and CEO, THQ. "We are dedicated to expanding our unmatched success story in the kids space and this agreement with Marvel is an excellent complement to our portfolio."

The Marvel Super Hero Squad universe is expected to expand the traditional Marvel audience to children aged 4-10. Iron-Man, Hulk, Spider-Man, Captain America, Wolverine, Thor, The Fantastic Four and others will be ready by the fall of 2009 to begin their adventures in a caricatured Super Hero City - the place where fun and humor co-exist and have only one goal: to bring excitement to the youngsters.

Still, just because Marvel and THQ have joined forces, it doesn't mean that a serious advertising campaign shouldn't be started: Marvel Animation, an animated television series is in the works and it is expected to make its air debut in 2009, and Marvel Comics will start featuring Marvel Super Hero Squad comics of several of its comic books. So, a new universe is born. Let's hope kids will enjoy it.