**Titular:** “Manga, Microids Launch Smurfs Kart MENA”

**Intro:**
Riyadh, August 17, 2023 — Manga Productions (MiSK Foundation) and Microids have partnered to exclusively publish *Smurfs Kart* across MENA, launching August 22. The racing game, featuring localized content and Saudi talent involvement, will debut on PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch, aiming to expand regional gaming engagement.

**Factbox (50w):**
– **Release:** August 22, 2023.
– **Platforms:** PS4/5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch.
– **Features:** 12 Smurf-themed tracks, 4-player races, Turbo Edition with exclusive collectibles.
– **Significance:** Marks 65th Smurfs anniversary; MENA localization aligns with Saudi gaming growth initiatives.

**Manga Productions and Microids Join Forces to Launch “Smurfs Kart” Across MENA, Featuring Localized Content and Saudi Talent**

**Riyadh, August 17, 2023** – In a landmark move for the gaming industry, **Manga Productions**, a subsidiary of the Mohamed bin Salman Foundation (MiSK), has announced an exclusive partnership with global gaming giant **Microids** to publish and distribute the eagerly awaited racing game **”Smurfs Kart”** across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Slated for release on **August 22, 2023**, the game will debut on PlayStation 4/5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch, promising high-speed adventures with the iconic blue characters loved worldwide.

### **A Strategic Alliance for Regional Gamers**
The agreement grants Manga Productions exclusive rights to localize and distribute *Smurfs Kart* in MENA, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals to empower local talent and amplify the region’s gaming footprint. The collaboration emphasizes culturally tailored content, ensuring MENA players enjoy immersive experiences while creating opportunities for Saudi developers, designers, and voice actors to contribute to global gaming projects.

### **Race Through the Smurfs’ Enchanted World**
*Smurfs Kart* combines nostalgic charm with modern gameplay, featuring:
– **12 Unique Tracks**: Speed through iconic Smurfs locations like the Smurf Village, Gargamel’s lair, mystical forests, and treacherous swamps.
– **Playable Smurfs**: Choose from fan-favorite characters, each with distinct abilities (e.g., Brainy Smurf’s gadgets or Hefty Smurf’s strength).
– **Multiplayer Modes**: Compete solo or team up in 4-player local multiplayer races.
– **Power-Ups and Customization**: Unleash items like stink bombs and rockets to secure victory, and personalize karts with vibrant stickers.

For collectors, the **”Turbo” Edition** includes exclusive bonuses such as Papa Smurf’s embroidered badge and a sticker pack, adding extra flair to the gaming experience.

### **Leadership Perspectives: Bridging Cultures Through Gaming**
**Dr. Essam Bukhary**, CEO of Manga Productions, highlighted the partnership’s significance:
> “This collaboration with Microids strengthens our commitment to delivering world-class entertainment while showcasing Saudi talent. The Smurfs’ timeless appeal bridges generations, and we’re proud to bring this beloved IP to MENA with localized touches that resonate deeply with our audience.”

**Stéphane Longeard**, CEO of Microids, echoed the enthusiasm:
> “Manga Productions shares our passion for quality and innovation. Together, we aim to captivate Smurfs fans globally while celebrating the MENA region’s vibrant gaming community.”

### **Celebrating 65 Years of Smurfs Magic**
The partnership coincides with the **65th anniversary** of The Smurfs, first created by Belgian artist Pierre Culliford (Peyo) in 1958. The franchise’s legacy includes a 272-episode animated series translated into 30 languages, cementing its status as a cultural phenomenon. The game’s MENA launch taps into this heritage while introducing new audiences to the Smurfs’ whimsical universe.

### **A New Era for MENA Gaming**
By blending international IP with regional expertise, *Smurfs Kart* exemplifies how strategic collaborations can elevate the gaming landscape. As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in its creative industries, projects like this underscore the kingdom’s growing influence in global entertainment.

Mark your calendars for **August 22** and gear up for a kart-racing extravaganza that promises fun, competition, and a fresh chapter for The Smurfs in MENA!

**Platforms**: PlayStation 4/5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch.
**Turbo Edition**: Available now for pre-order with exclusive collectibles.

*Stay tuned for updates on regional launch events and community tournaments!*

**FAQs: Smurfs Kart Collaboration Between Manga Productions and Microids**

1. **What is *Smurfs Kart*, and on which platforms will it be available?**
*Smurfs Kart* is a racing game inspired by the iconic Smurfs franchise, releasing on PlayStation 4/5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch (as per broader franchise info) on August 22, 2023.

2. **When does *Smurfs Kart* launch in the MENA region?**
The game launches globally on August 22, 2023, with MENA-specific distribution handled exclusively by Manga Productions.

3. **How is the game localized for MENA audiences?**
Manga Productions will adapt content linguistically and culturally, including Arabic language support and region-specific enhancements to resonate with local players.

4. **What exclusive items are in the *Turbo* edition?**
The *Turbo* edition includes Papa Smurf’s embroidered badge, vibrant stickers, and potentially additional in-game customization options (exact details TBA).

5. **Does *Smurfs Kart* support multiplayer modes?**
Yes, it supports solo play, competitive races, and cooperative modes for up to four players locally or online.

6. **How are Saudi talents involved in this project?**
Manga Productions emphasizes hiring Saudi developers, translators, and creatives for localization, publishing, and potential regional content integration.

7. **What tracks and environments are featured in the game?**
Players race across 12 tracks, including the Smurf Village, enchanted forests, Gargamel’s house, swamps, and the iconic Smurfs dam.

8. **Why did Manga Productions partner with Microids?**
The collaboration aligns with shared goals of global content excellence and expands MENA market reach while leveraging Microids’ gaming expertise.

9. **Are there anniversary features for the Smurfs’ 65th year?**
While not explicitly stated, the partnership timing honors the franchise’s legacy, with potential unlockable nostalgia content in-game.

10. **Will the game be available outside MENA, and who publishes it there?**
Yes—Microids manages global distribution outside MENA, with worldwide availability on all listed platforms from August 22.

11. **What unique power-ups or mechanics does *Smurfs Kart* include?**
The game offers Smurf-themed items (e.g., magic potions, gadgets) to boost speed or hinder opponents, though specifics remain under wraps.

12. **Can players enjoy *Smurfs Kart* solo and competitively?**
Yes, with single-player story modes, time trials, and multiplayer races for casual or competitive playstyles.

13. **Is a PC version of *Smurfs Kart* planned?**
Current announcements focus on consoles, but Microids may expand to PC later, depending on demand.

14. **Is *Smurfs Kart* suitable for children?**
As a family-friendly franchise, the game targets all ages, with ESRB/PEGI ratings likely confirming low-violence, cartoonish fun.

15. **Where can MENA players purchase the game?**
Available digitally via PlayStation/Xbox stores and physically through retailers like Geekay, Virgin Megastore, or Amazon MENA.

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*Answers reflect available details as of August 17, 2023. Updates may follow from Manga Productions or Microids.*

**🚀 Call to Action (CTA):**
¡No te quedes fuera de la pista! Reserva ya tu copia de *Smurfs Kart* y prepárate para vivir una experiencia de carreras única con tus personajes favoritos. Disponible a partir del **22 de agosto** en PlayStation 4/5, Xbox Series X|S y Xbox One. ¿Listo para competir? ¡Acelera, personaliza tu kart y demuestra quién es el verdadero campeón de la aldea Smurf! Si eres fanático de los detalles exclusivos, no olvides explorar la edición *Turbo* con contenido especial. ¡La diversión está a punto de comenzar!

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**🎮 Conclusión:**
La alianza entre Manga Productions y Microids no solo marca un hito en la industria del gaming para la región MENA, sino que también refleja el compromiso de potenciar el talento saudí y acercar contenido localizado de calidad a audiencias árabes. *Smurfs Kart* llega en un momento icónico, celebrando 65 años de los entrañables personajes creados por Pierre Culliford, y promete combinar nostalgia con innovación. Este lanzamiento no solo es un tributo a los fans de todas las generaciones, sino un paso firme hacia la consolidación de Arabia Saudita como un actor clave en el ecosistema global del entretenimiento interactivo. ¡Prepárense para una carrera llena de magia, estrategia y adrenalina!

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**🙏 Agradecimiento:**
Gracias por leernos y ser parte de esta emocionante noticia. ¿Qué opinas de este lanzamiento? ¿A qué Smurf te gustaría representar en la pista? ¡Comparte tus expectativas en los comentarios y no olvides seguirnos para más actualizaciones sobre gaming, innovación y cultura pop en la región MENA! ¡Hasta la próxima carrera! 🏁💙