SEGA ANNOUNCES ONLINE MULTIPLAYER FUNCTIONALITY IN VIRTUA FIGHTER™ 5 FOR XBOX 360™

Premier Fighting Game Franchise Goes Online In Europe and North America

STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN (July 6, 2007) – SEGA® Europe, Ltd. and SEGA® of America, Inc. announced today that the highly-anticipated arcade fighting game, Virtua Fighter™ 5 for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, will feature an online versus mode at launch in Autumn 2007. The Xbox 360™ version of Virtua Fighter™ 5 is based on the latest arcade version update and features both analogue-stick and D-pad control, as well as vibration support. The game also includes an improved Quest mode featuring more CPU rivals, items, and emblems for character customisation. The DOJO mode has added features including leaderboards, training move settings, improved throw and escape training, and the option to change your opponent’s position and recovery type. These all work to create a more refined DOJO mode where players can improve their fighting strategy.

Now featuring an online two-player versus mode via Xbox Live®, Virtua Fighter™ 5 will allow players to compete online. Players will also be able to select one of the 17 characters or customise them in Quest mode. Customisation features allow players to modify their characters by selecting from four base costumes and then attaching a wide range of unlockable and earnable items. Players will not only achieve victory by defeating highly-skilled opponents, but also by competing for prizes and earning in-game money which allows them to buy many items at an in-game shop.

“For a lot of very good reasons, Virtua Fighter™ 5 is regarded as the deepest and most revered fighting game available on next generation consoles”, said Gary Knight, European Marketing Director, SEGA Europe. “Bringing Virtua Fighter™ 5 to the Xbox 360™ will not only capture an entirely new audience, but will allow gamers to show their Virtua Fighter™ skills online against friends and foes”.

Created by the renowned development team AM R&D Department #2 out of Japan, Virtua Fighter™ 5 will be released in Autumn 2007. For more information, please visit www.sega-europe.com. For assets please visit www.sega-press.com.

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