Stargate Universe Is the Next Stargate Series

Tuesday, September 2nd, 2008

MGM released a press release about the newest addition to the Stargate universe, and it’s aptly titled Stargate Universe. Set to premiere sometime in 2009 in the summer, the show will be produced by Stargate SG-1 and Stargate Atlantis co-creators Brad Wright and Robert C. Cooper.

Interesting bits include the following!

“Universe will continue the Stargate legacy of vibrant storylines and compelling adventures, but will re-invent the format in a whole new way.”

This is particularly scary, because hey, I happen to like Stargate just the way it is. It makes me nervous when anyone starts talking about re-inventing something I love.

Wright and Cooper said: “In ‘Universe,’ we plan to keep those elements that have made the franchise a success, such as adventure and humour, while breaking new ground in the relationships between mostly young and desperate explorers, thrust together and far from home. Above all, we believe the Stargate itself remains an enduring icon with infinite potential as a jumping off point for telling stories.”

All I can say is please don’t give me a space opera. Although I enjoy Battlestar Galactica, the relationships between the characters wears me out when I watch. I need a regular dose of the more adventure-focused Stargate shows just to keep myself from getting bogged down by all those messy relationships.

The next bit was my favorite, because it gives a hint of what I might expect when Stargate Universe premieres.

After unlocking the mystery of the Stargate’s ninth chevron, a team of explorers travels to an unmanned starship called the Destiny, launched by The Ancients at the height of their civilization as a grand experiment set in motion, but never completed.

What starts as a simple reconnaissance turns into a never ending mission, as the Stargate Universe crew discovers the ship is unable to return to Earth, and they must now fend for themselves aboard the Destiny.

The crew will travel to the far reaches of the universe, connecting with each of the previously launched Stargates, thus fulfilling the Destiny’s original mission. Challenges will arise though as the ship comes into range of Stargates placed centuries ahead of the Destiny and the crew is unable to control the ship’s navigational schedule. If someone is left behind, there is no way to go back for them, adding to the drama of encountering new races, enemies and adventures.

Finally, the details, such as when Stargate Universe will debut and how.