Ubisoft and the Independent Film Channel (IFC) have thrown down the gauntlet to all aspiring film makers out there with their competition to find the best short film tie-in with the upcoming game Assassin's Creed.

The game, which is due out in November, is set during the third crusade and anybody interested in taking part in the competition will have to draw upon history and the title to produce their work.

Entries should be six minutes or less and can be posted at the IFC’s Media Lab site where full rules can also be found (see link below). Finalists will be chosen by Ubisoft and FC judges which can then be voted for by site visitors.

The grand prize winner will receive $10,000, an Xbox 360, an Xbox 360 version of Assassin's Creed and inclusion of their short film inside the Limited Edition version of the game. Not only that, but the winning film will also be aired on the IFC television network in November to coincide with the launch of the game.

Two runner-up prizes include $2,500 cash, an Xbox 360, an Xbox 360 version of Assassin’s Creed and inclusion of their short film inside the Limited Edition version of the game.

"Assassin's Creed has the cinematic look and feel of an epic movie. This contest allows film makers of all levels a chance to showcase their creativity by expanding upon the mystery and themes of the Assassin's Creed video game," said Tony Key, vice president of marketing at Ubisoft.

"Video games, like films, have the ability to tell rich and dynamic stories and the partnership with IFC for the Assassin's Creed short film contest is a way for Ubisoft to show its appreciation to the art. We're excited to see what people bring to the table; I have a feeling we won’t be disappointed."

>> Link - Official Site/Media Lab