Countdown to the Zeebys: Agatha Christie Death on the Nile

Agatha Christie: Death on the Nile is in the running for Best Game of 2007 at the upcoming Zeeby Awards. We chatted with Tony Leamer of Oberon Media about what makes Agatha Christie: Death on the Nile special and why it deserves to get your vote.

Can you give us insights or fun facts about the development of this game?

Jane Jensen, who designed the game, was a huge Agatha Christie fan growing up. Last year, as a result of her involvement in the game, she was able to meet and have a very civilized lunch with Agatha Christie’s grandson, Matthew Prichard. Learning more about this remarkable woman directly from her grandson was a fan’s dream come true!

What makes Agatha Christie: Death on the Nile special, and why should people vote for it?

This was the first successful casual game associated with a major literary license, and in this case, the bestselling novelist of all time! The team delivered a game that truly captured the uniquely British charm and the universal appeal of the amazing Death on the Nile story. A vote for this game is a vote for teams that take chances, and a confirmation that our industry should continue to take great IP and translate it into fun, engaging casual games experiences.

Besides your own game of course, what other games impressed you in 2007?

The Dream Day Series (Dream Day Wedding, Dream Day Honeymoon, Dream Day First Home) were the first casual games to speak directly to the female audience, and they have been remarkably successful.

If you win a Zeeby, how do you plan to celebrate (aside for going to Disneyworld, of course)?

I’ll probably celebrate by curling up with a good book. Something by Agatha Christie or James Patterson, most likely.

Any final words for your fans?

If you don’t vote for this game, you will be haunted by the ghost of Hercule Poirot’s moustache…

Voting for the Zeebys runs from now until July 5. Click here to vote for you favorite casual games of 2007.

Erin Bell