Realm specializes in adapting intellectual properties (IP) from leading entertainment brands like Warner Bros., Netflix, and Marvel into podcasts. The network has gained recognition for its award-winning adaptations, such as “Harley Quinn & The Joker: Sound Mind” and “Orphan Black: The Next Chapter.” Additionally, Realm has successfully built a large audience, with its originals being translated into 12 languages and reaching listeners in over 200 markets globally.
While transmedia adaptations of games have been gaining popularity in recent years, podcast adaptations have been relatively less common. However, Realm aims to change that by capitalizing on the growing trend. The network has already created video game-inspired shows like “Ctrl-Alt-Destroy” and is now set to expand further into the gaming industry with the appointment of Levin.
In a significant development prior to Levin joining, Realm announced a multi-year partnership with IGN. This collaboration will see Realm and IGN working together to develop, produce, distribute, and monetize podcast titles based on major video game IP. The first show under this agreement is an adaptation of Squanch Games’ “High on Life.”
Levin expressed his excitement about joining Realm and emphasized the increasing importance of podcasts in expanding the touchpoints that entertainment companies have with fans. He believes that podcasts have become a crucial component within the hub and spoke model of creating lasting brand equities.
Levin’s extensive experience in investing in gaming founders and working on various gaming adaptations, including the highly anticipated “Fallout” series by Amazon Studios and the forthcoming “Borderlands” film by Lionsgate, will undoubtedly contribute to Realm’s efforts to bring gaming IP into the world of podcasting.
Levin joins a distinguished roster of media executives on Realm’s board, including Michael Smith, chief marketing officer for NPR, Russell Binder, president of IP accelerator Striker Entertainment, and Marci Wiseman, award-winning producer and former co-president of Blumhouse TV. Notably, Binder and Blumhouse TV have been involved in the successful Five Nights at Freddy’s film adaptation.
With Levin’s appointment and the IGN partnership, Realm is well-positioned to make a significant impact in the gaming industry by transforming popular gaming IP into compelling podcast content. As the demand for transmedia adaptations continues to rise, podcasts may become an essential medium for fans to engage with their favorite gaming franchises. With its track record of successful adaptations and a team of experienced industry professionals, Realm is set to lead the way in this emerging field.
