Firefly mobile game to fly to iOS and Android in 2014

Based on the cult TV series, the new game will feature role-playing action in a multi-user online environment.

(Credit: YouTube/Screenshot by Lance Whitney/CNET)

Firefly fans will be able to take to the skies via their mobile devices come next summer.

The first officially licensed game based on Joss Whedon's short-lived but cult sci-fi series, Firefly Online will let people interact with each other in an online virtual universe. You'll assume the role of captain of a Firefly-class vessel, just like Captain Mal Reynolds, aka Captain Tightpants, from the TV series and "Serenity" motion picture.

As described on the game's Web page, your official mission will be to:

Create a crew, customize a shiny ship, and explore the Verse. Aim to misbehave in space and planet-side adventures. Pick-up and play anywhere with cross-platform, cross-device game play support. Engage with unique social features connecting Firefly fans.

Served up by Fox Digital Entertainment and mobile game developer QMX Interactive, Firefly Online is currently being created by QMX and video game studio Spark Plug Games. The game is expected to launch during the summer of 2014. It will initially be available for iOS and Android devices but may expand to other platforms.

"At QMX, we know firsthand how great and powerful a franchise Firefly is and how mighty the Browncoats are," QMX CEO Andy Gore said in a statement. "It has always been our mission to bring the Verse to life for our customers in every way possible. The idea of creating an interactive experience where fans can have their own Firefly adventures -- well, that's just too shiny for words."

Fans can preregister for the game at the Firefly Online Web site and keep up to date with its Twitter feed and Facebook page.