The co-creator of the iconic and bloody Mortal Kombat franchise, Ed Boon, is to be inducted into the Academy of Interactive Arts and Science's (AIAS) Hall of Fame.

The organisation said that Boon would be given this honour at the 25th DICE Awards in February. Boon is best-known for his work at NetherRealm, where he co-created the Mortal Kombat fighting game series back in 1991. Prior to that, he worked at Williams Electronics as a pinball machine programmer.

"We are thrilled to have Ed be inducted into our Hall of Fame," AIAS boss Meggan Scavio said.

"From his early work on pinball machines to his monumental achievements co-creating the Mortal Kombat franchise, Ed's dedication and perseverance to the craft and art of games has left an incredible legacy for fans and game developers alike."

Xbox Game Studios boss Matt Booty added: “I met Ed on my very first day in the game industry at Midway and had the good fortune to watch him lead the creation of Mortal Kombat and work with so many talented people to grow it into an iconic, worldwide franchise. Ed epitomises the best of what a game designer can be: big ideas, a great sense of humour, clear focus, and the ability to bring people together as a team. He has created not only a string of hit games but has also supported countless people on their own paths in the game industry."

In joining the AIAS Hall of Fame, Boon will be joining the likes of Connie Booth, Bonnie Ross, Todd Howard and Hideo Kojima.