Cancer patient is immortalised as 3D character in PC game

A young gamer who lost his battle with liver cancer has been immortalised as a character in his favourite computer strategy game.

James Payne, 24, died from his illness earlier this year - but a 3D model of James will star as a commander in a Roman legion in Total War: Rome II, due out this October.

Gamer James Payne, 24, was invited to see the studios behind the BAFTA-winning 'Total War' series last year, in a trip organised by the Willow charity.

One of the game's modellers suggested that James could play a part in an upcoming installment - and took photos and measurements that day to turn him into a 3D model.

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Craig Laycock, of Creative Assembly, said: "One of our character modellers suggested that he could put James into the game in some way in his spare time."

"He took reference photos and measurements of James and created an absolutely brilliant representation of James that will eventually feature in Rome II."

"Although he won't get the chance to see Rome II released James will live on in some small way in our game. Every time I see his character I'll be reminded of what a great guy he was."

Craig added: "In many ways, James represented what's best about working in video games - crafting games that people enjoy and that stay with them."

"It's why we all do what we do, and why we're so passionate about it. He really brought that home to us."

"We've still not finalised James' exact role in the game, but wherever he's used we'll be making sure it's a fitting tribute to one of our most dedicated fans."

Total War: Rome II, due to hit the shelves in October, is the eighth instalment of the Total War strategy games, where players command historic armies in 3D battles on screen.