Two things: The game wars continue on all-fronts and it’s never too early to get the kids ramped up about their Christmas 2006 lists.

Microsoft Game Studios and 4Kids Entertainment are introducing Viva Pi’ata as both a video game and as a TV series. Billed as a high-energy, mass-appeal entertainment property created by Rare Ltd., Pi’ata showcases an engaging cast of colorful, wild-roaming pi’ata animals that entertain and challenge imaginations.

Pi’ata’s world will include a Saturday morning 3D animated television series (slated to premiere this fall on 4Kids TV on FOX) and an immersive video game developed by Rare Ltd. exclusively for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system. The game is scheduled to debut in the 2006 holiday season.

A related 4Kids Entertainment licensing program will result in additional licensed products launching in 2007.