Codemasters Gives American Idol Video Game Fans Something to Sing About

Business Wire, Sept 23, 2003

Entertainment Editors/Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 23, 2003

Official American Idol Video Game Web Site Goes Live

@ www.codemasters.com/americanidol

As "American Idol" fans prepare for the scheduled November 2003 release of the official American Idol video game for the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, Game Boy(R) Advance and PC-CD ROM, Codemasters has launched the game's dedicated Web site. The new Web site (http://www.codemasters.com/americanidol) is packed full of surprises, including audio messages from Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul; new gameplay images; and a complete virtual backstage tour that is certain to fulfill every Idol fans' craving until the game's release.

After being welcomed by Simon Cowell, the coldest man in reality television, online visitors will be swept away on a virtual behind-the-scenes tour of the American Idol video game world as never before seen. Visit the Audition Room for the latest news from the game and be sure to checkout the Wardrobe section for a collection of free screensavers, wallpapers and images.

The "American Idol" reality entertainment TV show garnered a cult-like following that amassed a staggering 38 million viewers in the final episode of Season 2, and averaged 21 million viewers per episode throughout the season. The show is co-produced by FremantleMedia North America and 19TV, and "American Idol" hopefuls are currently auditioning for season three, which premieres in January 2004 on FOX.

The official American Idol video game is scheduled to hit store shelves this November for the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, Game Boy(R) Advance and PC. The game's Web site is now online at http://www.codemasters.com/americanidol.

About Codemasters

Codemasters is a global interactive entertainment company with offices in New York City, England, France, Spain, Holland and Germany. Founded in the UK in 1986, Codemasters publishes award-winning software for the PC, next generation video game consoles and online gaming. Codemasters develops original titles such as Operation Flashpoint (PC Game-of-the-year) and Pro Race Driver, as well as games based on top licensed properties including American Idol, MTV Music Generator and IndyCar Series. Based on the television phenomenon, the American Idol game will feature celebrity judges Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson, and will be available this fall for the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, Game Boy(R) Advance and PC. Additional information about Codemasters and its products can be found at www.codemasters.com.

About FremantleMedia

FremantleMedia, formerly known as Pearson Television, is one of the largest international producers of entertainment programs in the world, producing more than 260 programs in over 40 territories a year. The company's international distribution division distributes over 19,000 hours of programs to 150 countries worldwide. FremantleMedia is the content business production arm of the RTL Group, Europe's largest television and radio broadcast company, with interests in 23 television channels and 22 radio stations in nine European countries. RTL Group is part of Bertelsmann AG, an integrated media and entertainment company that commands leading positions in the world's major media markets.

American Idol(TM) 19 TV Ltd and FremantleMedia Operations BV. Based on the TV program 'American Idol - the Search for a Superstar' produced by FremantleMedia North America Inc. Licensed by FremantleMedia Licensing Worldwide. www.fremantlemedia.com.