Peasoup, the Danish publishing and tech studio behind the emerging “Smart Book” format, has announced a new partnership with Sir Ian Livingstone to adapt the iconic Fighting Fantasy series into augmented‑reality interactive books. The first title in the collaboration, Freeway Fighter, is scheduled for release in 2027.
The Smart Book system blends full‑colour printed pages with digital interactivity delivered through a dedicated AR app. Readers scan pages to trigger animations, interactive sequences and environmental effects, allowing scenes to unfold directly on top of the physical book. According to the press release, this approach aims to let readers “see and interact” with the post‑apocalyptic world of Freeway Fighter rather than simply imagine it.
Peasoup was founded in 2019 by Søren Jønsson, a veteran writer and videogame designer. The company has already released four original Smart Books spanning fantasy, pirate adventures and fantasy (with reviews on B3 coming soon). Bringing the format to Fighting Fantasy marks the first time the technology has been paired with a major established gamebook series.
Sir Ian Livingstone said the partnership “takes the experience to the next level,” noting that the original Fighting Fantasy books were designed to put readers at the centre of the story. The AR adaptation, he added, will allow choices and actions to influence outcomes in new ways that enhance and build upon his original concept.
Attendees at UK Games Expo can try Peasoup’s current Smart Book range at the Zatu Distribution stand, with copies available to purchase at Waterstones or directly from Zatu. Livingstone will also appear at the show for signings and a live reading of City of Thieves alongside John Robertson.
Livingstone’s contributions to both board and videogames cannot be underestimated. There have already been direct, digital adaptations of his books via games like Fighting Fantasy and The Warlock of Firetop Mountain, but it’s hard to deny the impact that Livingstone’s work has had on role-playing games such as Legacy of Dragonholt or even most of the dungeon crawlers featured in this “best-of” list.
Freeway Fighter will launch in 2027, with further Smart Book adaptations from the Fighting Fantasy line to be announced.
