THQ has announced the acquisition of the publishing rights for 50 Cent: Blood on the Sand for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

The sequel to the multi-million unit selling title 50 Cent: Bulletproof, 50 Cent: Blood on the Sand will put gamers in the role of world famous hip hop artist 50 Cent as he, and members of G-Unit, battle their way across two war-torn countries on a mission to collect payment from a crime cartel boss.

50 Cent: Blood on the Sand is currently scheduled for worldwide release in early 2009, featuring run and gun shooter game play, brawler style combat, online co-op and eighteen exclusive new 50 Cent tracks.

"50 Cent is a cultural icon and one of the biggest names in hip hop. THQ is thrilled to be working with him on this exciting new title," said Brad Carraway, vice president, global brand management, THQ. "Combining intense single player combat, drop-in and drop-out online co-op and never-before-released music tracks makes this the ultimate package for gamers and hip hop fans alike."

"Blood on the Sand has non-stop action and exclusive music tracks from me and the G-Unit that you won't find anywhere else," said 50 Cent. "Plus our fans will be able to play together with online co-op, and maybe even join me or one of the G-Unit online."