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News | Headlines & Information

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) today announced details of its new PLAYSTATION 3 40GB model that will be launched throughout Europe on October 10th 2007 at a price of €399 (£299).

The new PS3 is being introduced to provide an affordable entry point into the world of High Definition gaming and entertainment, and includes all the features central to the PLAYSTATION 3 experience; true next generation gameplay, High Definition Blu-ray Disc movies, SIXAXIS Wireless Control, and Wireless Internet and HDMI connectivity, all powered by the Cell Broadband Engine, the digital heart of PS3.

The specification of the new 40GB model has been determined following feedback from thousands of PS3 owners, and features two USB 2.0 ports rather than four and no longer includes the multi memory card port.

The new 40GB model is also no longer backwards compatible with PlayStation 2 titles. This is due to a reduced emphasis placed on this feature by later purchasers of PS3, as well as the availability of a more extensive line-up of PS3 specific games, which will number a total of 65 titles across all genres by Christmas 2007.

As with the PLAYSTATION 3 60GB, the 40GB model features system software updates allowing new features and functionality to be added to the system as time progresses.

In the UK and Ireland, a Value Pack consisting of a 60GB PS3 with extensive backwards compatibility and two first party titles will be on sale at a price of €499 (£349). Remaining on sale while stocks last, the 60GB model represents outstanding value for the keen gamer wishing to upgrade to the High Definition capabilities of PS3. Once stocks are exhausted the new 40GB model will be the only one available in the SCEE territories.

"The introduction of the 40GB model has been the result of extensive research into the entertainment needs and preferences of the next generation of PS3 owners," said David Reeves, President of SCEE. "It has allowed us to deliver an extremely advanced, yet highly affordable High Definition gaming and entertainment system, configured to the needs of the next generation of European PS3 owners. PS3 has always been the device of choice for the discerning gamer and entertainment seeker, and the new 40GB model is more than ever the perfect High Definition entertainment system."

Microsoft and Bungie Studios to Evolve Relationship; Companies to forge new long-term relationship.

REDMOND, Wash. — Oct. 5, 2007 — Microsoft Corp. today announced a plan for Bungie Studios, the developers of the Halo franchise, to embark on a path to become an independent company. Microsoft will retain an equity interest in Bungie at the same time continuing its long standing publishing agreement between Microsoft Game Studios and Bungie for the Microsoft owned “Halo” intellectual property as well as other future properties developed by Bungie.

The critically acclaimed Xbox 360® exclusive “Halo 3” achieved $300 million in global sales in its first week. Released on Tuesday, Sept. 25, “Halo 3” is the fastest-selling video game ever and already one of the most successful entertainment properties in history.

“Our collaboration with Bungie has resulted in ‘Halo’ becoming an enduring mainstream hit,” said Shane Kim, corporate vice president of Microsoft Game Studios. “While we are supporting Bungie’s desire to return to its independent roots, we will continue to invest in our ‘Halo’ entertainment property with Bungie and other partners, such as Peter Jackson, on a new interactive series set in the ‘Halo’ universe. We look forward to great success with Bungie as our long-term relationship continues to evolve through ‘Halo’-related titles and new IP created by Bungie.”

“This exciting evolution of our relationship with Microsoft will enable us to expand both creatively and organizationally in our mission to create world-class games,” said Harold Ryan, studio head for Bungie. “We will continue to develop with our primary focus on Microsoft’s platforms; we greatly value our mutually prosperous relationship with our publisher, Microsoft Game Studios, and we look forward to continuing that affiliation through ‘Halo’ and beyond.”

Bungie Studios will remain in its current location in Kirkland, Wash.

About Bungie Studios

Bungie Studios was founded in 1991 with two goals: to develop games that combine brilliant technology, beautiful art, intelligent stories and deep gameplay, and then sell enough of those games to achieve its real goal of total world domination. Over the past 10 years it has produced games such as the “Marathon” trilogy and the first two “Myth” games, hailed as classics by critics and gamers around the world. Bungie’s “Halo” franchise is an international award-winning action title that has grown into a global entertainment phenomenon, selling more than 14.8 million units worldwide, logging nearly 1 billion hours of multiplayer action on Xbox LIVE®, and spawning action figures, books, a graphic novel, apparel and more. Bungie released “Halo 3,” which on Sept. 25, 2007 to universal critical acclaim, and first day US sales of over $170 million, making it the biggest opening day in entertainment history. More information on Bungie can be found at http://www.bungie.net.

About Microsoft Game Studios

Microsoft Game Studios is a leading worldwide publisher and developer of games for the Xbox and Xbox 360™ video game systems, the Windows® operating system and online platforms. Comprising a network of top developers, Microsoft Game Studios is committed to creating innovative and diverse games for Windows (http://www.microsoft.com/games), including such franchises as “Age of Empires®,” “Flight Simulator” and “Zoo Tycoon®”; Xbox and Xbox 360 (http://www.xbox.com), including such games as “Gears of War” and franchises such as “Halo,” “Fable®,” “Project Gotham Racing®” and “Forza Motorsport®”; and MSN® Games (http://www.games.msn.com), the official games channel for the MSN network and home to such hits as “Bejeweled” and “Hexic®.”

About Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

TAITO BURSTS WITH BUST-A-MOVE: MOBILE MANIA 

Multi-Player Version of Classic Bubble-Breaking Puzzle Action Coming Soon to Mobile 

Los Angeles, CA - Oct. 5, 2007 - One of the most popular puzzle games of all time will soon be popping up on mobile devices across North America. Taito's Bust-A-Move(tm): Mobile Mania, features a new network option that allows players to compete against their friends and family on different mobile phones, capturing all the excitement of the classic arcade game.

"Classic puzzle games with networking options are a natural fit for the mobile platform," says Keiji Fujita, producer of Bust-A-Move: Mobile Mania. "Fans who remember playing these games on consoles and in the arcades can have the same great play experience on their mobile handsets."

Bust-A-Move: Mobile Mania features the same addictive gameplay that made the franchise a hit in arcades and living rooms around the world. In addition to the multi-colored bubble popping frenzy that has enthralled fans for years, Bust-A-Move: Mobile Mania adds an all-new network option that allows limitless fun as players can compete with friends and family across other mobile phones. Bust-A-Move: Mobile Mania is expected to be available on AT&T and T-Mobile USA this fall as well as for subscribers of other major mobile carriers in the United States in early 2008. Pricing has yet to be determined by each of the individual carriers.

About Taito Corporation

Taito Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Square Enix Co., Ltd. with headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. Since its inception in 1953, Taito has been at the forefront of the interactive entertainment industry. With the release of SPACE INVADERS® in 1978, a new form of entertainment was born in computer games. Over the years, Taito's legendary brands have made their way to every major gaming platform and now is available to consumers on the mobile platform via all major U.S. wireless carriers and through off-deck, online portals and distributors. Taito continues to diversify its product offerings by creating and distributing games that appeal to gamers of all kinds, stimulating their minds (and fingers) with challenging yet easy-to-learn interactive entertainment. More information on Taito Corporation can be found on the Internet at http://www.taito.co.jp/eng/.

> October 4, 2007

Big sales for Halo 3
Ultimate KO contest
Space Ace returns

Digital Leisure announces release of Space Ace in HD Ace comes to life on your PC

GORMLEY, Ontario, Canada (October 4, 2007) — For the first time ever you can experience the stunning classical animation of Space Ace in true High Definition. This release of Don Bluth’s legendary animated arcade game features video transferred directly from the original film source, delivering the sharpest images and most vibrant colors ever – even better than the original laser disc release.

The follow-up to last year’s release of Dragon’s Lair PC HD, Space Ace PC HD also comes with a completely new five channel surround sound audio mix. The original audio has been cleaned and remastered to eliminate any impure background audio then analyzed to determine the best placement to immerse the players in the action. With the striking visuals and remarkable 5.1 surround sound audio, Space Ace HD offers fans an experience well beyond the arcade.

“Don Bluth’s animation just pops in Space Ace HD” says David Foster, President of Digital Leisure. “It’s fantastic that today’s computers allow gamers to enjoy full high definition products. There are details in the animation that I didn’t know existed before seeing the game in such high definition. The colors are incredibly vivid and the surround sound mix will have you looking over your shoulder!"

In Space Ace you play the heroic Ace who must stop the evil Commander Borf from taking over the Earth! Borf plans to reduce all of humankind to infants and take over the planet. Only two people have the courage and strength to stop Borf and save Earth: the beautiful Kimberly and the heroic Ace. But as they approach Borf’s stronghold, Ace is hit by the Infanto Ray, changing him into a child, and Kimberly is kidnapped by the evil madman! The fate of Earth is in your hands!

Space Ace HD PC will be available this fall at many fine game retailers as well as at www.digitalleisure.com. Look for Blu-ray and HD DVD releases of Space Ace in 2008.

Digital Leisure is a leading publisher of interactive video based titles. The company acquires and re-masters existing video-intensive titles that would benefit from the superior video and audio quality of DVD and HD.

Global Entertainment Phenomenon "Halo 3" Records More Than $300 Million in First-Week Sales Worldwide; Xbox 360 console sales more than doubled; nearly 3 million gamers play online via Xbox LIVE.

REDMOND, Wash. — Oct. 4, 2007 — Interactive entertainment will never be the same, with the launch of one title that has changed the way the world thinks about video games. “Halo® 3” has captured the attention of consumers worldwide and has made history as one of the biggest entertainment launches of all time.

Microsoft Corp. today announced that “Halo 3” has officially become a global phenomenon, garnering more than $300 million in sales in the first week alone. The critically acclaimed Xbox 360® exclusive, which was released worldwide on Tuesday, Sept. 25, is the fastest-selling video game ever and already one of the most successful entertainment properties in history.

Initial reports from retailers worldwide show console sales have more than doubled compared with the weekly average before the launch of “Halo 3.” With games such as “Halo 3,” “Madden 08” (EA Sports), “Mass Effect” (Microsoft Game Studios) and “Rock Band” (Harmonix), Xbox 360 has the greatest lineup in the history of video games and is the only console where consumers can play all the year’s biggest blockbusters.

“‘Halo’ is truly a cultural phenomenon, and the launch of ‘Halo 3’ is an important milestone for Xbox 360 and for video games as entertainment and as an art form,” said Bill Gates, chairman of Microsoft. “‘Halo 3’ embodies our vision for the future of entertainment, where some of the world’s greatest creative minds will deliver a new generation of interactive storytelling.”

“Halo 3” is quickly staking its place as the most popular Xbox LIVE® game in history with members gathering in record numbers to play on the world’s largest online gaming and entertainment network on TV. More than 2.7 million gamers have played “Halo 3” on Xbox LIVE in the first week, representing nearly one-third of the 7 million Xbox LIVE members worldwide. Within the first day of its launch, “Halo 3” players worldwide racked up more than 3.6 million hours of online gameplay, which increased more than elevenfold to 40 million hours by the end of the first week, representing more than 4,500 years of continuous gameplay. Since “Halo 3 launched,” gamers have unlocked nearly 30 million achievements. In its first week alone, “Halo 3” drove a record number of Xbox LIVE Gold Memberships as hundreds of thousands of new members gathered online with friends, family members and other gamers around the world to collectively compete and complete the game.

“Halo 3” is the conclusion to the epic trilogy and picks up where “Halo 2” left off, answering questions about the fates of the beloved protagonist Master Chief™ and his artificial intelligence sidekick Cortana as they struggle to save humankind from destruction at the hands of the alien coalition known as the Covenant. In addition to the rich storyline, “Halo 3” continues the franchise’s grand tradition of delivering innovative online multiplayer experiences via Xbox LIVE. The game’s online multiplayer and innovative four-player cooperative gameplay for Xbox LIVE Gold users, the much-talked-about Saved Films feature that enables players to capture and save their favorite moments on their hard drives, and Forge, an innovative map editor that enables myriad customization options, are just some of the new features gamers are experiencing.

Developed by Bungie Studios and published by Microsoft Game Studios, the “Halo” franchise is exclusive to the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system and optimized for the Xbox LIVE online entertainment network. “Halo 3” was released in 37 countries and 17 languages. To date, more than 20 million copies of the games in the “Halo” trilogy have been sold worldwide.

Record week-one sales come on the heels of the previously announced $170 million in sales in the U.S. within the first 24 hours of the game’s release, which marked not just the biggest video game launch, but the biggest entertainment launch in history. The Xbox 360 title beat previous U.S. sales records set by blockbuster openings for entertainment events such as the release of “Spider-Man 3” and “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.” In addition, more than 1.7 million copies of “Halo 3” were pre-ordered in the United States, making it the fastest pre-selling game in history, surpassing the previous record-setting pre-sales of “Halo 2.”

WMMA Ultimate Knock Out Competition

Phoenix, AZ October 4, 2007 – Grey Dog Software, a Phoenix based developer of sports management simulation software for personal computers, today announces the Ultimate Knock Out competition. Here's your chance to win a free copy of the upcoming Adam Ryland Grey Dog Software game World of Mixed Martial Arts ("WMMA").

The rules are simple. From the 1st to the 7th of November we will be holding an eight-person elimination tournament featuring some of the top female competitors from the WMMA universe, with the matches simulated and reported using the WMMA game engine. All you have to do is correctly predict the winner - everybody who guesses correctly will be entered into a prize draw, with the winner receiving a free copy of the game on the day of release (to be announced in the coming weeks).

Entering the competition couldn't be simpler: all you need to do is e-mail us at wmmacontest@greydogsoftware.com with the name of your prediction in the subject line. We will only accept one entry per person (for obvious reasons!) and all entries must have reached us by the time the tournament starts on November 1st.

To view the Ultimate Knock Out competitors please visit Grey Dog’s forums. For more information on World of Mixed Martial Arts visit Grey Dog’s official website at http://www.greydogsoftware.com.

About Grey Dog Software

Grey Dog Software, LLC an Arizona based, privately-held company, is a leading developer of sports management simulations for the PC. Grey Dog Software strives to provide ground-breaking features, enormous depth, and endless replayability with each game.

> October 2, 2007

NBA 2K8 ships to stores
New Xbox 360 controller colors
Turok voice actors named
SCEA's NBA 08 hits PS2, PS3 & PSP

PREMIER HOLLYWOOD ACTORS TO STAR IN CINEMATIC STORY OF TUROK

Timothy Olyphant, Powers Boothe, Ron Perlman, William Fichtner and Donnie Wahlberg

Voice Characters in Dinosaur-Filled First Person Shooter Game

BURBANK, Calif. — (October 2, 2007) — Prominent actors will star as the major characters appearing throughout Turok, the upcoming story-driven, sci-fi first person shooter game from Touchstone. Timothy Olyphant, Powers Boothe, Ron Perlman, William Fichtner and Donnie Wahlberg are among the actors who recorded voices of characters in the game, which will be released on February 5, 2008, for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system.

Turok is an epic, story-driven first person shooter set on a dark, mysterious planet in the future. The player will take on the role of Joseph Turok, a former black ops commando, now part of an elite special forces squad, known as Whiskey Company, which is on a mission to take down Roland Kane and his army, the Mendel-Gruman Corporation. As Whiskey Company’s ship approaches the planet inhabited by Mendel-Gruman, the ship is shot down. Turok is stranded on the planet and must locate other crash survivors while confronting Mendel-Gruman soldiers and a variety of dinosaurs and other ravenous creatures.

The realism of Turok and his team’s terrifying circumstance is conveyed through the distinguished voice talent. Gregory Norman Cruz provides the voice of Joseph Turok and the other members of Whiskey Company are: Timothy Olyphant (as Cowboy), Ron Perlman (Slade), Donnie Wahlberg (Shepard), William Fichtner (Logan), Mark Rolston (Cole), Chris Judge (Jericho), Lombardo Boyar (Gonzales), Gideon Emery (Reese), Josh Gomez (Parker), Jon Curry (Foster), Jason Harris (Carter) and Steve Van Wormer (Henderson).

Powers Boothe is the voice of the villain, Roland Kane, an escaped war criminal and Turok’s former mentor. Sean Donnellan voices Grimes, Kane’s mysterious, elusive henchman and part of Mendel-Gruman.

“The actors who lent their voices to Turok are a testament to both the magnitude of the project and the interest of top-notch talent,” said Josh Holmes, vice president and general manager of Propaganda Games, the Vancouver, British Columbia-based developer. “The characters in the story are paramount to the experience and we have assembled an outstanding cast to assure high quality performances across the board.”

Turok is rated M for Mature by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB).

Xbox 360 Wireless Controllers Come in Two New Colors for the Family This Holiday 

Xbox 360 is adding a splash of color to the holiday season with the release of new Xbox 360 Wireless Controllers in pink and blue on Oct. 2, each offered for an estimated retail price of $49.99 (US). The whole family can enjoy Xbox 360 with these bright additions to the “chill” and black Xbox 360 Wireless Controllers.

The pink and blue Xbox 360 Wireless Controllers will make a great gift this holiday season for newer gamers. Delivering high-performance wireless gaming, the Xbox 360 Wireless Controllers feature all of the convenience and flexibility of the originals with a unique twist of personality. Now every member of the family can have a favorite color controller to match their favorite animal from “Viva Piñata: Party Animals.”

The response from gamers regarding the Xbox 360 Wireless Controller has been nothing short of amazing. In fact, the Xbox 360 wireless controller is one of the most popular gaming controllers of all time. These integrated 2.4GHz high-performance controllers enable comfort and extended game-play.

The Xbox Guide Button, available on all the controllers, provides quick access to premium digital movies, music and games libraries on Xbox LIVE, the number one online distributor of high-definition television and feature film content.

All Xbox 360 Wireless Controllers also use optimized technology that allows users to wirelessly maneuver with a range of 30 feet. Two AA batteries provide 30 hours of life so users can enjoy hours of uninterrupted gaming.

More detailed information and art can be found by visiting www.xbox.com/press . Photos are available at the below FTP link. We ask that you do not share this link publically as it is for media use only.

Expansion pack for “Flight Simulator X” franchise adds a host of new planes, missions and modes and hits store shelves Oct. 23rd

Microsoft Game Studios today announced the first expansion pack for the critically acclaimed “Flight Simulator X,” released last Fall, has gone gold and will begin hitting retailers throughout North America on Oct. 23rd.

Developed by ACES Studio, “Flight Simulator X: Acceleration” adds a wealth of new content and features, allowing gamers to race against each other in amazing, highly-detailed locations around the world. Aviators are able to test their skills and heroism in many new missions while enjoying three exciting new aircrafts and the ability to share rewards, photos and videos with friends and the broader flight simulator community.

“Flight Simulator X,” which launched in October 2006, introduced gamers to a beautifully rich and realistic world offering a completely new and innovative gaming experience. Available in both standard and deluxe versions, “Flight Simulator X” allows gamers of all ages, types and skill levels opportunities to cruise more than 24,000 airports and experience first-hand what it’s like to be an aviator traveling the globe. With the addition of more than 50 missions and increased online game capabilities, “Flight Simulator X” is more than just a simulator and has proved to be the fastest selling addition to the 25-year “Flight Simulator” franchise.

“Flight Simulator X: Acceleration” will be available for the estimated retail price of $29.99 for Windows. “Flight Simulator X: Acceleration” is rated “E10+” for everyone 10 and older. “Flight Simulator X” is required to play “Flight Simulator X: Acceleration.”

NBA 08 Takes Center Court and Brings Authentic Basketball Action Exclusively for PlayStation(R)3, PlayStation(R)2 and PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable)

Latest Titles Tip-Off the Season With Distinct Hoop Experiences Offering High-Definition Graphics, Player Customization, Mini-Games, and A Look Inside the NBA with 'The Life'

FOSTER CITY, Calif., Oct. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. (SCEA) announced today the launch of NBA 08, available exclusively for the PLAYSTATION(R)3 (PS3(TM)) computer entertainment system, the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, and the PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) handheld entertainment system. The three new titles in the NBA 08 franchise offer uniquely different gameplay experiences, and are ready to deliver fans the complete package of basketball gaming with everything from high-definition realism and customization on PS3, to addicting Block Party(TM) mini-games on PSP, to "The Life v.3" on PlayStation 2. 

Building on the success of last year's best-selling NBA game on PS3, NBA 08 raises the bar on its high-definition graphics and adds an innovative Upside Progression System(TM), where players earn credits that are used to unlock items as well as modify player attributes and accessories. Additionally the game adds enhanced SIXAXIS(TM) wireless controller functionality, and Key Control(TM) Play Calling to set primary go-to players. NBA 08 for PSP makes a huge return this year with an engaging handheld NBA experience that features new carnival mini-games as a part of Block Party along with an enhanced Conquest mode. Not to be outdone, realistic NBA action once again returns to PlayStation 2 with the acclaimed "The Life" series, this time bringing the third installment with NBA 08 "The Life, v.3." "NBA 08 showcases the talent of SCEA's development team to create the most realistic and exciting basketball game available across all PlayStation platforms," said Scott Rohde, director, sports product development, SCEA. 

"From superior graphics, to addicting mini-games, to the conclusion of "The Life v.3", NBA 08 offers something for everyone. No matter what type of basketball gaming our fans want, they can find it on PS3, PlayStation 2, and PSP." NBA 08 delivers an all-new soundtrack complete with some of today's hottest acts from a variety of genres including M.I.A., LCD Soundsystem, legendary old-school artist Gangstarr, four new instrumentals by hip-hop mercenary EL-P, and two by renowned producer The Alchemist. The cover of NBA 08 returns one of the brightest young stars in the NBA, Phoenix Suns All-Star Amare Stoudemire. Taken ninth overall by the Suns in 2002, Stoudemire averaged 13.5 points and 8.8 rebounds per game as a rookie. 

He finished this past season with an average of 20.4 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocked shots per game, earning All-NBA First Team honors along with a second All-Star appearance. In addition to Progression mode, NBA 08 for PS3 brings back an improved NBA Replay mode, complete with new challenges and added realism such as floor markers where shots were actually taken in the game. In conjunction with the SIXAXIS controller, the game also features the new Free 6(TM) enhanced control set that allows fans to use intuitive wireless motions to defend high and low, initiate crossover dribbles, and keep the ball away from defenders in a triple-threat pose. For the first time, NBA 08 includes comprehensive audio commentary from top broadcast talent Kevin Calabro of the Seattle SuperSonics for play-by-play and former NBA great Mark Jackson for color analysis. 

Finally, the game introduces a never-before-seen Key Control system, where players can issue commands to specific primary players, creating a more "team-based" gaming environment that mimics real play dynamics in the NBA. With a completely reworked user interface, updated character models and environments, and revised online system with player profiles and quick play options, NBA 08 brings an unsurpassed basketball experience to PS3. NBA 08 for PSP introduces the new Block Party compilation of mini-games specifically designed for players to enjoy quick gaming action anytime. Block Party delivers a host of new mini and carnival style games including Fast Break, Block-a-Shot, and Shootin' Bricks, to provide fans with traditional and non-traditional basketball gameplay. In the enhanced Conquest mode, players challenge various cities to expand their territory domination, with added player and team training as well as city upgrades where players will go from challenges in training centers to playing in full-blown arenas. 

Additionally, NBA 08 for PSP includes revamped gameplay mechanics and Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) to create a more realistic and action-oriented experience. Combining quick pick-up-and-play mini-games with more in-depth Conquest and Season modes, NBA 08 for PSP offers the most complete portable NBA package available for fans. For PlayStation 2, fans can play the third installation of The Life with NBA 08's "The Life: v.3." In this chapter, players will look to create an NBA dynasty as Coach T. roams the sidelines during his last season. Offering more than 60 different game scenarios, The Life now allows players to experience playing all five starting positions. NBA 08 for PlayStation 2 delivers new play-by-play commentary and improved A.I. as well as enhanced on-court and crowd audio. With two-dozen mini-game challenges, online access, and an all-new soundtrack, NBA 08 once again adds up to a robust basketball experience that further brings quality content to PlayStation 2. Marketing efforts for NBA 08 include a multi-million dollar marketing campaign across TV, radio, print, and online, that will run nationally throughout the entire National Basketball Association(R) season. Additionally, NBA 08 will receive full public relations and promotional support, as well as dedicated point-of-purchase displays and merchandising support. The Independent Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) rates NBA 08 "E" for "Everyone." For more information about the ESRB visit http://www.esrb.org.

About Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. continues to redefine the entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation(R) and PS one(R) game console, the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, the PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) handheld entertainment system, the ground-breaking PLAYSTATION(R)3 (PS3(TM)) computer entertainment system, and its online and network services the PLAYSTATION(R)Network and PLAYSTATION(R)Store. Recognized as the undisputed industry leader, Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. markets the PlayStation family of products and develops, publishes, markets, and distributes software for the PS one game console, the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, the PSP system and the PS3 system for the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif. Sony Computer Entertainment America, Inc. serves as headquarters for all North American operations and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

Visit us on the Web at http://www.us.playstation.com

The NBA and individual NBA member team identifications reproduced on this product are trademarks and copyrighted designs, and/or other forms of intellectual property, that are the exclusive property of NBA Properties, Inc. and the respective NBA member teams and may not be used, in whole or in part, without the written consent of NBA Properties, Inc. All rights reserved. (c) 2007 NBA Properties, Inc. (C) 2007 Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.

"PlayStation", "PLAYSTATION", "PSP", and "PS" Family logos are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. "PS3" and "SIXAXIS" are trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

2K Sports Announces NBA® 2K8 Now Available

New York, NY – October 2, 2007 – 2K Sports, the sports publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO), today announced that NBA® 2K8 is now available at North American retailers for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system and PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system. NBA 2K8 is the latest installment of the #1 rated* NBA® 2K series for three years running and follows NBA® 2K7, last year’s top selling** basketball game for Xbox 360. As the latest addition to this benchmark franchise, NBA 2K8 sets a new standard for next generation sports gaming with an exciting set of all-new features, improved visuals and gameplay.

New features available in NBA 2K8 include:

· Sprite Slam Dunk Contest: Rock the house 2K style with gravity-defying jams as gamers perform from over 300 dunk variations! Up to four players can play to raise the competition level and even compete online. Bobbito Garcia appears as the emcee of the contest.

• All-New Off-Ball Control: The player isn’t just controlling the ballhandler anymore. Now on offense, users can switch off to other players to call for alley-oops, jostle for post-position, set screens, and more.

• Lock-On D: All-new defensive controls give users more control of their player than ever before. Use the right analog to play tighter defense on the ballhandler and run advanced defensive sets.

• The Association: Allows users to run their franchise by identifying player roles, balancing playing time, and keeping team morale up. The Hoopcast Simulator makes simulating games exciting, while SimCentral centralizes all necessary information for real-time stats, standings, injuries, and much more.

• Next Gen Movement Technology: With improved Signature Style technology, player movement has never looked this lifelike! Body actions and movements will react naturally to factors of speed, collisions and momentum, bringing the game to life like never before.

• Music: NBA 2K8 features three exclusive original tracks from the legendary J Dilla with Common, Madlib and Q-Tip with Talib Kweli providing vocals on their respective songs. Rounding out the soundtrack are offerings from Quasimoto, Percee P, Run-DMC, Devo, Cut Chemist, Fishbone, Stone Roses and many more.

NBA® 2K8 is rated E for Everyone and is available now for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system for $59.99, and for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system for $29.99.

For more information, log onto http://www.2ksports.com.

*According to GameRankings.com average scores of 2005-2007 NBA video games.

**According to NPD Funworld estimates of U.S. retail sales of Xbox 360 NBA video games.

About Take-Two Interactive Software

Headquartered in New York City, Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. is a global developer, marketer, distributor and publisher of interactive entertainment software games for the PC, PlayStation® game console, PlayStation®2 and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment systems, PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system, Xbox® and Xbox 360® video game and entertainment systems from Microsoft, Wii™, Nintendo GameCube™, Nintendo DS™ and Game Boy® Advance. The Company publishes and develops products through its wholly owned labels Rockstar Games, 2K Games, 2K Sports and 2K Play; and distributes software, hardware and accessories in North America through its Jack of All Games subsidiary. Take-Two's common stock is publicly traded on NASDAQ under the symbol TTWO. For more corporate and product information please visit our website at www.take2games.com.

All trademarks and copyrights contained herein are the property of their respective holders.

The NBA and individual NBA member team identifications used on or in this product are trademarks, copyrighted designs and other forms of intellectual properties of NBA Properties, Inc. and the respective NBA member teams and may not be used, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of NBA Properties, Inc. © 2007 NBA Properties, Inc.

“PlayStation”, "PLAYSTATION", and "PS" Family logo are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

Microsoft, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox LIVE, and the Xbox logos are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.

> October 1, 2007

New Playstation official mag
Tetris Splash comes to XBL

Get Drenched this Wednesday as "Tetris Splash" Comes to Xbox LIVE Arcade!

One of the most popular electronic games of all time – Tetris – is back and returns with enhanced graphics and beautiful aquatic playscapes in “Tetris Splash.” “Tetris Splash” will be available for download on Xbox LIVE Arcade this Wednesday, October 3, 2007 at 9:00 a.m. GMT (2:00 a.m. PDT).

Since its introduction, Tetris has gone from Russian sensation to worldwide phenomenon, attracting more than 60 million enthusiastic players. Thanks to its unique and simple randomness, it's never the same game twice. “Tetris Splash,” developed by Tetris Online Inc., features multiplayer gameplay over Xbox LIVE for up to six players and two player head to head battles, as well as a virtual fish tank that is customizable through gameplay achievements and add-on content.

Also, don’t miss out the new downloadable content for “Carcassonne.” For more details please visit www.xbox.com/livearcade.

Sony Computer Entertainment America and Future US Announce the Creation of 'PlayStation(R): The Official Magazine'

Future US to Publish First Monthly Issue in Time for Holidays

FOSTER CITY, Calif., Oct. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) and Future US, Inc, the leading publisher of cutting-edge special interest magazines and websites, today announced that they have agreed to terms to publish PlayStation(R): The Official Magazine. The first full Future US-published issue of PlayStation(R): The Official Magazine will be the Holiday 2007 edition, on sale in late November. The initial circulation will be 300,000 copies and the frequency will be 13 issues per year. Future US will produce and oversee all the editorial and advertising sales for the magazine. PlayStation(R): The Official Magazine will be the definitive news, previews and reviews publication for PlayStation(R) enthusiasts and users. It will offer users unprecedented access to the world of PlayStation and product special features made possible by the magazines' exclusive relationship with SCEA. Rob Smith, formerly editor-in-chief of PSM-Independent PlayStation Magazine, will be the new editor-in-chief of PlayStation(R): The Official Magazine. Future US' parent company, international special-interest media company Future plc, publishes Official Sony PlayStation Magazine in the United Kingdom and licenses it in numerous other countries. "Future US has a strong heritage delivering cutting-edge insight into the industry, and we are looking forward to a long standing relationship to deliver unrivaled exclusive content to PlayStation fans," said Peter Dille, Senior Vice President, Marketing and PLAYSTATION(R)Network, SCEA. "We're very excited to be working with a group that is nearly as passionate about our brand as we are ourselves and we look forward to working with Future on many innovative ideas they have to create a best in class enthusiast publication." "We are enormously pleased to be selected to publish the Official title for one of the world's great entertainment brands," said Simon Whitcombe, Publishing Director, Future US. "Future's international heritage is as a PlayStation publisher. PSM sold more than 40 million copies over its lifetime and we have published the Official PlayStation Magazine in the UK since 1995. We're honored that SCEA recognizes the excellence and experience that we can bring to the license and to PlayStation fans all over the world."

About Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. continues to redefine the entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation(R) and PS one(R) game console, the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, the PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system, the ground-breaking PLAYSTATION(R)3 (PS3(TM)) computer entertainment system and its online and network services the PLAYSTATION(R)Network and PLAYSTATION(R)Store. Recognized as the undisputed industry leader, Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. markets the PlayStation family of products and develops, publishes, markets and distributes software for the PS one game console, the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, PLAYSTATION 3 and the PSP system for the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif., Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. serves as headquarters for all North American operations and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

About Future US Future US is a leading publisher of cutting-edge special interest magazines (Official Xbox Magazine, PlayStation(R): The Official Magazine, PC Gamer, Maximum PC, Mac|Life, Nintendo Power, Pregnancy, Future Snowboarding, Guitar World, and Revolver) and websites (GamesRadar, FileRadar, gloob.tv, and Next Generation) which sell in excess of 2.1 million and reach more than 3.5 million unique visitors per month. Future's publications reach a young, active, affluent audience and rank 12th among audited newsstand publishers in gross newsstand revenue. Future US is based in the San Francisco Bay Area, with offices in New York, Los Angeles and San Diego.