I know this information has been posted and re-posted now, but I thought I would put the actual USC press release link up here.

USC School of Cinematic Arts Graduates Set To Release Their First Game For Playstation®3 In A Three-Title Deal

Click Here.

… or read the extended post for the text of the release.

I am really glad to see other people excited about us doing this. I mean, wow. That is really awesome. And Sony is really awesome for giving us this opportunity. Because we are actually in a position to make some really beautiful and special games. I just hope you guys get to play them!
Dean Elizabeth M. Daley announced today that a group of graduates have slated December to release the video game flOw, the first title from its three-game deal with Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA).

flOw, a game that can be downloaded onto PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, is based on a thesis project of the same name by Jenova Chen. The title is being produced by Kellee Santiago and developed by thatgamecompany, a development studio started jointly by Chen and Santiago. Both are 2006 graduates of the USC School of Cinematic Arts Interactive Media Division masters program. This project marks the first time a major game company has purchased the rights to downloadable games for PS3 developed by students in the USC interactive program.

“This is a watershed moment in the history of the school, Daley said. “It builds on our tradition of expanding relationships with the professional community, and opens the door for our students and graduates to showcase their creative talents in an incredibly dynamic market.

With its aqua background and soft ambiance, flOw’s unique gameplay attracts large audiences. As such, it reflects the type of projects coming out of the Interactive Media Division, which was established in 2002 and offers both graduate and undergraduate degrees.

The agreement with Sony Computer Entertainment America, which was inked in July 2006, also provides the team with development space on the Sony lot in Santa Monica, California.

“Jenova and I are thrilled to be working with SCEA, said Santiago. “Because we’re working within Sony, we not only have access to their internal resources, but we also get to work alongside some of the best pros in the industry.