Sony Computer Entertainment of America announces exclusive worldwide arrangement for "Mortal Kombat 3" video game; deal gives company sole worldwide rights for PlayStation for next-generation home version of popular video game

Business Wire, August 18, 1995

FOSTER CITY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 18, 1995--Sony Electronic Publishing Co. and Sony Computer Entertainment of America (SCEA) Friday are announcing the confirmation of a deal with Midway Manufacturing Co., developers of "Mortal Kombat 3," giving Sony sole worldwide rights to the much-anticipated title on next-generation CD-based video game systems through the first quarter of 1996, following its release Oct. 1 on SCEA's PlayStation, slated for introduction this fall.

Continuing an enviable legacy, the arcade version of the new game debuted to effusive industry reviews at the American Coin Machine Exposition (ACME), an industry trade show held this past March. Since the release of the original "Mortal Kombat" in 1992, the games have proven themselves an industry phenomenon, generating more than $1 billion in arcade and home-version revenues.

On Aug. 18, New Line Cinema adds to the building excitement with the premiere of a full-length "Mortal Kombat" feature film, starring Christopher Lambert and "Mortal Kombat" characters from the arcade game.

"Bringing out a title like `Mortal Kombat 3,' sold under the SCEA label in an exclusive situation, is definitely delivering a knock-out punch to our competitors," said Chip Herman, vice president of marketing at SCEA. "Expect everything about PlayStation to remain exceptional, especially our commitment to bringing customers the best in software."

The home version of "Mortal Kombat 3" will feature the highly charged game play of the arcade version. In addition to showcasing seven new warriors, the latest edition boasts many firsts, including "kombat kodes," an encryption system that unlocks secret powers, and an all-new run button that allows for faster, more intense play.

Sony Computer Entertainment of Europe (SCEE) President Chris Deering is anticipating an equally enthusiastic reception across the Atlantic. "The greatest asset of `Mortal Kombat 3' is that it is `Mortal Kombat,' period. `Mortal Kombat' has a blockbuster franchise in Europe. The new title on PlayStation will set a new standard of excellence in gaming at home."

Offering a dramatic increase in processing speeds and other breakthrough technologies, PlayStation delivers realistic, real-time movement of game characters. The new system also renders a maximum gaming environment where large numbers of characters can move simultaneously while backgrounds change in relationship to the player's viewing angle, resulting in true 3-D interactivity.

Sony Computer Entertainment of America, a division of Sony Interactive Entertainment Co., is based in Foster City. The company markets the PlayStation for distribution in North America, publishes PlayStation software for the North American market, and manages the U.S. third-party licensing program. Sony Interactive Entertainment Inc. is a subsidiary of Sony Corp. of America.

"Mortal Kombat" is a registered trademark of Midway Manufacturing Co.

CONTACT: Sony Computer Entertainment of America, Foster City

Andrea Vassallo, 415/655-8000

or

Fleishman-Hillard Inc., Los Angeles

Samantha Sackin, 213/629-4974