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SEGA DELIVERS KNOCKOUT BLOW WITH VIRTUA FIGHTER 4 FOR PLAYSTATION 2

World-renowned Developer Yu Suzuki Re-ignites 3D Fighting Genre

SAN FRANCISCO - (March 19, 2002) - SEGA(r) of America today announced the release of "Virtua Fighter* 4" exclusively for the PlayStation(r)2 computer entertainment system. Already hailed as "The Best Fighting Game Ever Made" by gaming enthusiast publication Official U.S. PlayStation Magazine, "Virtua Fighter 4" pounds its way onto the PlayStation 2 with lightning-fast action, a deep training mode and breathtaking, arcade-perfect graphics.

Developed by legendary game creator Yu Suzuki and SEGA's AM2 studios, "Virtua Fighter 4" is the latest incarnation of SEGA's genre-defining series. Suzuki is best known for pioneering the 3D fighting genre with 1993's landmark hit "Virtua Fighter(tm)," which is recognized as the first 3D fighting video game and is on permanent display at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History in Washington D.C.

"'Virtua Fighter 4' is poised to give the 3D fighting genre a much needed kick in the pants," said Mike Fischer, vice president of entertainment marketing, SEGA of America. "The back-to-basics gameplay, fast action and liquid smooth graphics in 'Virtua Fighter 4' are quickly earning the game a reputation for being the best fighting game ever."

With new gameplay modes and innovative features, "Virtua Fighter 4" adds layers of depth to the series' tried-and-true action. An all-new fighting engine emphasizes speed, timing and finesse, challenging experts to master complex combos, yet allowing beginners to jump in and get started. A deep training mode lets gamers study moves, strategy and timing before squaring off against their opponents. The game also features:

* Totally customizable fighting styles, with the freedom to switch stances in mid-fight

* Ultra-high polygon character models, allowing for exacting details, including flowing clothing and realistic facial expressions

* New Artificial Intelligence (A.I) training mode, allowing players to coach their own computer-controlled character, which can compete against other A.I. characters

* Two new characters, Lei Fei and Vanessa Lewis, join 11 existing characters for a total of 13 distinctive, fierce fighters

"Virtua Fighter 4" for PlayStation 2 is rated "T" for Teen, and is available at retailers nationwide for $49.95.

About SEGA

SEGA(r) of America is the American arm of Tokyo, Japan-based SEGA Corporation, a $3.5 billion corporation by market capitalization, recognized as a worldwide leader in interactive entertainment both inside and outside the home. The company develops, publishes and distributes interactive entertainment software products for a variety of hardware platforms including PC, wireless devices, and those manufactured by Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. SEGA of America's Web site is located at <http://www.sega.com>.

About Sony Computer Entertainment

Recognized as the undisputed industry leader, Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. markets the PlayStation(r) game console and develops, publishes, markets and distributes software for the PlayStation game console and the PlayStation(r)2 computer entertainment system for the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif., Sony Computer Entertainment America serves as headquarters for all North American operations and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.



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Virtua Fighter 4 (PS2)