SEGA Europe Ltd Announces Worms 3D

First 3D Version of Popular Turn-based Strategy Game Comes to Latest-Generation Consoles & PC

LONDON, UK – April 25, 2003 – SEGA Europe Ltd, today announced an agreement with Team17 Software Ltd, granting SEGA Europe rights to publish 'WormsTM 3D' on GameCubeTM from Nintendo®, PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system from Sony®, XboxTM video game system from Microsoft®, the as well as the PC. Worms 3D is the first 3D incarnation of the highly acclaimed and best-selling Worms franchise, and this latest version marks the first time a core Worms game will appear on the latest generation consoles.

SEGA Europe has rights to publish the game across all PAL video system territories, including Europe and Australia/New Zealand, as well as US NTSC video systems including North America. The game will be localised across key European territories, including France, Germany, Spain and Italy.

The Worms phenomenon has taken the gaming world by storm for many years with sales approaching 8 million units, gripping the minds of gamers everywhere through its simple appearance yet cunningly designed gameplay. Finally, to the excitement of fans everywhere, Worms comes to PC and the latest consoles with a new dimension. Worms 3D is set in a more exciting and immersive game world than ever before, with the same winning emphasis on great multiplayer action and challenging single player fun.

The classic Worms game-play remains unchanged, featuring turn-based fighting and relying on the player to judge the trajectory and strength of their shots in order to inflict maximum damage on opponents, but this time in glorious 3D. Favorite weapons such as bazookas, grenades, dynamite, air strikes and sheep are all present with, the addition of brand new weapons designed to take advantage of the new liberating 3D landscape. With a multitude of tactics available, coupled with the ever changing, randomly generated landscapes, Worms 3D is set to take Worms' award-winning gameplay to the next level.

Matthew Woodley, European Marketing Director, SEGA Europe, commented, "Brilliant gameplay and a strong brand – Worms 3D has SEGA 'hit' written all over it. The creators at Team 17 have inspired us all with their passion and vision and we're delighted to be partnering with them in bringing Worms 3D to as wide a market as possible."

Debbie Bestwick, Commercial Director, Team 17 Software Ltd, added, "SEGA has an incredible reputation and a real passion for developing truly great video games. We're honoured and absolutely delighted to have this opportunity to work with them to bring Worms 3D to market. Their approach has been a breath of fresh air - just what the European games development industry needs."

Worms 3D marks the first European title signing for SEGA Europe since its reconfiguration as a software-only publisher. All formats are currently scheduled for release across Europe in Q4 2003.