Amazon launches Wolfenstein series: alternate history and the Nazis are at it again

Streaming giant Amazon is producing a TV series based on the cult video game Wolfenstein. Development is being handled by Amazon's MGM studio, and the story centres on the same hero with strong fists and a steadfast hatred of Nazis: William "B.J." Blaskowitz.

The project is still in its early stages, but it's already known that it will be a feature film series - with no animation or other compromises.

Who's behind the project

The script and creative direction is entrusted to Patrick Somerville - the author of the series "Station Eleven" and "Maniac". Production is being handled by Kilter Films, the same team behind the successful film adaptation of Fallout.

Also involved in the project are representatives from MachineGames - the studio that rebooted the Wolfenstein series in recent years - and Bethesda, the publisher of the original game.

What the series will be about

The plot is based on an alternate version of history: the Nazis won World War II and now rule the world. BJ Blaskowitz - a war veteran, anti-hero, armed to the teeth and with a single purpose: to destroy the Nazis and arrange a small apocalypse on schedule.

The creators have not yet specified whether the series will be based on the early classic Wolfenstein, or on the darker and bloodier scenarios of recent games. But judging by the stated motto - "The story of killing Nazis - eternally relevant" - with peace will not work out there.

Wolfenstein is one of the oldest game series in history: the first instalment was released back in 1981. Since then, the brand has seen a slew of relaunches and has become synonymous with the shoot-em-up-and-go-and-don't-talk genre.

After the success of Fallout on Prime Video, Amazon is taking the logical step of building its own film adaptation of the iconic games. And if all goes according to plan, Wolfenstein could become the new "hallmark" of the alternative dystopia genre on streaming.

Source: Variety