Microsoft Corp. and Electronic Arts (EA) announced that EA will provide its games for the Xbox video game system, Microsoft's highly anticipated, next-generation video game console. Initial titles will be MADDEN NFL FOOTBALL, NASCAR 2000, FIFA and F1 2000. Under the terms of the multiyear pact, EA will publish up to 10 titles in support of the console's launch in fall 2001. In addition, EA has ordered 500 Xbox Development Kits (XDKs) from Microsoft. This deal adds a major nod of support for Xbox, which boasts over 200 software companies providing content for the system 18 of which developing exclusive Xbox titles. However, the move seemed inevitable due to EA's early support in helping Microsoft develop the console. "We're excited about Xbox and Microsoft's commitment to the platform," said Larry Probst, EA's chairman and CEO. "Microsoft has the vision, the technology and the resources required to make a significant impact on our industry." Robbie Bach, senior vice president of Microsoft's Games Division and chief Xbox officer (CXO), said, "EA is recognized as the world leader in game software. With them onboard, it further ensures gamers around the world that the best and brightest developers will be delivering previously unforeseen possibilities in gameplay on Xbox." Don Mattrick, president of EA Worldwide Studio Operations, said, "When we saw the hardware specification and talked to the Xbox team, we knew that this console was going to be popular with novice and hardcore gamers alike. Titles like MADDEN NFL 2001, SSX snowboarding and KNOCKOUT KINGS boxing are going to look great on Xbox."
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
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