SEGA SOCCER SLAM SHIPS FOR THE PLAYSTATION 2

Critically Acclaimed Soccer Game Blends High-Intensity Gameplay, An Irreverent Cast of Characters and Striking Visuals

SAN FRANCISCO (September 17, 2002) - SEGA(R) of America, Inc. announced today the release of "SEGA(R) Soccer Slam(TM)" for the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system. Produced by Visual Concepts Entertainment, a SEGA development studio, and developed by Black Box Games, the genre-defining "SEGA Soccer Slam" features lightning-quick gameplay and limitless visual style. Employing sophisticated motion-captured 3D models and multiple modes of play, "SEGA Soccer Slam's" lively cast of characters will dazzle gamers with their detailed expressions, athletic prowess and exaggerated personality traits. With its unorthodox take on the world's most popular sport, "SEGA Soccer Slam" delivers a fresh and exhilarating experience for sports gamers.

"With the release of 'SEGA Soccer Slam' on the PlayStation 2 a wider audience of gamers can now experience the non-stop gameplay and comical cast of characters that are unique to this game," said Tom Nichols, vice president of sports marketing, SEGA of America, Inc. "Arcade sports games don't get much more dynamic or entertaining than 'SEGA Soccer Slam.'"

Cartoon-style thugs, who take pleasure in breaking rules as well as arms, play "SEGA Soccer Slam's" brutal new brand of soccer. New to the PlayStation 2 version are an Arcade Mode with exhibition matches, a quick match option and two totally new and addictive mini-games. Also new is an added Challenge Mode, which lets gamers custom create their own team using existing characters inside the game. Here gamers can also unlock three new teams, who join the original six eccentric squads.

The intense action continues in the Quest mode, where players select one of the six elementally themed teams and play through a 10 game regular season and single elimination tournament in pursuit of the coveted Continental Cup. During the course of the season, the best players are recognized in a mid-season All-Star game, statistics are tracked in 24 categories, and money earned from winning matches is spent on buying accessories and attributes for the individual players. While victories unlock venues and mystery items that boost player attributes, the game's Challenge stages, which occur in between each match, let the players get familiar with the various special moves and abilities in "SEGA Soccer Slam." The game also features a Tourney Mode for sizzling multiplayer action and an additional Practice Mode.

With pick-up-and-play controls and a balanced competitive atmosphere for players of all skill levels, "SEGA Soccer Slam" skirts the intimidating nature of deeper simulation sports games. However, the action in "SEGA Soccer Slam" is fast and furious, as players dole out brilliant spotlight maneuvers and team specific powered-up plays, all shown with dazzling special effects. The players in "SEGA Soccer Slam" are as detailed as they are aggressive. Utilizing complex 3D models, individual voices and personalities, noticeable facial animations, and more than 1,000 motion-captured moves, including signature goal celebrations and character-specific kicks.

"SEGA Soccer Slam" is available at retailers nationwide for $49.95. The game is rated "E" for everyone.

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