AN online game based on the blockbuster films of the "Painted Skin" series will debut in China in July, the latest example of the booming synergy between the film and game industries.

The game "World of Painted Skin," developed by Beijing Kylin Culture Co, will begin nationwide public tests on July 6.

Kylin, a traditional film producer, is also a major investor in "Painted Skin 2," which generated box office receipts of 700 million yuan (US$111 million) last year.

"We will continue testing the water of the game industry because it shares the same culture and targeted consumer groups," said Shang Jin, Kylin's president.

Painted Skin is a well-known Chinese ghost story. The character image and music will be used in the games, Shang said.

Globally, top film titles like "Harry Potter" have been developed into games.