We've got a new studio and publishing label in town, thanks to Namco Bandai. Introduced today via press wire is the new label Surge, said to be "dedicated to providing cutting-edge games that are targeted at satiating the appetite of western gamers."

Andrew Lelchuk, Namco Bandai Games America's executive vice president for sales and marketing said,

Surge presents a significant milestone for Namco Bandai as it personifies our commitment to deliver compelling content for the discriminating player who is looking for games that are not only groundbreaking but also push the envelope. Through passion and innovation, Surge will complement our portfolio of established franchises and intellectual property while positioning the company as a creative force.

IPs are now being developed for the next year to be published under the new label. The first to launch under Surge is Afro Samurai (PlayStation 3, Xbox 360), scheduled to release on January 27, 2009.