South Park Human Kite

When video game publisher THQ went bankrupt and auctioned off its assets in early 2013, Ubisoft picked up the rights to South Park: The Stick of Truth, an RPG being made with heavy involvement, writing and voice-overs from creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker.

The game was a big hit among fans and critics, and for the first time successfully emulated the art style, comedic tone and smart storytelling of the show into an interactive 2D video game. It was if fans could play out an entire season or two of the series in their own way, and they’ll be able to do it again in the just-announced Stick of Truth sequel!

During Ubisoft’s press conference today to kick off their E3 2015 trade show presence, the publisher and South Park Digital Studios unveiled South Park: The Fractured but Whole with the above announcement trailer. The game picks up right where Stick of Truth ended, with the students separated by their factions from the last “game, ” and for the next adventure, Stan, Kyle, Kenny, Cartman and the player-controlled “new kid” trade in their fantasy clothing and equipment for their crime-fighting gear.

The Coon is Back!

Eric Cartman becomes the Coon again, with a team that includes Mysterion, Toolshed, Human Kite, Mosquito, Mint Berry Crunch from the South Park TV series. The sequel shifts development from Obsidian Entertainment – who were instrumental in bringing this franchise to life – to Ubisoft’s in-house San Francisco studio. Matt Stone and Trey Parker are again involved with every step of the development, from the story to the voices.

South Park: The Fractured but Whole is another comedy role-playing game but as the trailer points out in poking fun at itself, the interactive element of the game was a hit but had its issues. If the teaser is of any indication, the sequel will look to improve upon the gameplay and turn-based combat mechanics of its predecessor.

At this point, few details are known beyond the premise and characters, but with a strong foundation already set and fans already familiar with this digital recreation of the town of South Park, Ubisoft and South Park Digital Studios already have an established sandbox to build upon. No details beyond what’s in the trailer have been set and there’s no release window.

South Park: The Fractured but Whole releases for PC, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One at an unspecified date.