Ubisoft’s new Vancouver studio, formerly Action Pants, today announced its first game, Academy of Champions.

Academy of Champions is a Wii exclusive soccer title (football for you purists), intended for children and families, that will be compatible with the Wii Balance Board and the Wii Motion Plus accessories.

Featured in the game as a coach is the legendary Brazilian footballer Pele, who has been assisting with the development of the game.

“Soccer is a sport that is universally celebrated by all citizens of the world,” said Pele in a release from Ubisoft. “Working with Ubisoft to continue to promote the sport has been a wonderful experience. It is a thrill to continue to inspire a new generation of fans through an entertainment medium that introduces them to the exciting world of soccer.”

Also featured in the game is U.S. soccer superstar Mia Hamm. She becomes a team member to players who start the game by enrolling in a sports academy. Players then work to improve their soccer skills and recruit new team members.

Academy of Champions is scheduled for release later in 2009.

[Cross-posted at the Georgia Straight’s tech blog. ]