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EyeToy: Groove Heading To North America

(Press Release)

FOSTER CITY, Calif., Feb. 25 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. today announced the second title to utilize the EyeToy(TM) camera technology. EyeToy(TM): Groove, exclusive to the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, is the first interactive videogame that enables players to dance in time with one of the 28 licensed songs, from such artists as Elvis, Madonna, Jessica Simpson, Jamiroquai, and Fatboy Slim, with no controller or dance pad necessary. Developed by Sony Computer Entertainment London Studio, EyeToy: Groove is scheduled for release in Spring 2004 and will be available at an SRP of $49.99 with the EyeToy USB camera or $29.99 without.

EyeToy: Groove is the follow up to the highly successful EyeToy: Play, a game that has taken the consumer industry by storm. Labeled by GameSpot.com and Play Magazine as the most innovative of 2003, and selling nearly three million units worldwide, EyeToy has proven to be a must-have largely because players of any age can be on television and become the star of the game. The technology, which introduces players to an entirely new gaming experience, has created unprecedented consumer interest spurring Sony Computer Entertainment America to release a second EyeToy-compatible title.

With EyeToy: Groove, players are challenged to take their coordination and rhythm skills one step further. Simply by linking the EyeToy USB camera to a PlayStation 2, the player will appear live, on TV, enabling them to dance along with the on-screen prompts. Technique, style and timing are required as players move their arms, hips and body to the beat of one of the 28 licensed songs. Groove bonus points are given just for trying, so the more movement the higher the score.

"We are pleased to announce the second title in the EyeToy family so soon after the highly successful EyeToy: Play launch," said Ami Blaire, director, product marketing, Sony Computer Entertainment America. "The interest and success of the EyeToy technology proves that consumers are looking for an active alternative to traditional forms of entertainment, and EyeToy: Groove is just another step in making the world of interactive entertainment a reality."

EyeToy: Groove provides a gameplay option for everyone. If playing solo, gamers may try out dance moves in One Player Mode, or choose to just interact with on-screen special effects in the Chill Out Room. EyeToy: Groove also includes a number of multi-player options. In Tournament Mode players take turns to determine who has the best rhythm, reaction time and accuracy. Team Sync Mode allows friends to conquer the dance floor together, or go one step further with Battle Sync Mode, which allows players to dance together while being judged separately.

The popular Video Message feature from EyeToy: Play returns, allowing consumers to record personal messages onto a Memory Card (8MB)(PlayStation(R)2.) that is sold separately. Messages are also interchangeable; video messages created in EyeToy: Groove can be viewed with EyeToy: Play and vice versa. The Memory Card may also be used to save and replay photos and videos automatically captured while playing the various game modes. As the EyeToy experience is all about movement, players looking to get a little exercise can take advantage of the Calorie Counter, they simply enter their weight and watch how many calories can be danced away. The independent Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) has rated EyeToy: Groove (E) for Everyone. For more information about the ESRB visit http://www.esrb.org.

About Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.

Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. continues to redefine the entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation(R) and PS one(TM) game console, and the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system. The PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system is set to revolutionize the home entertainment market, offering the most compelling interactive content and the capability to be used as a network terminal in the coming broadband era. Recognized as the undisputed industry leader, Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. markets the PlayStation family of products and develops, publishes, markets and distributes software for the PS one game console and the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system for the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif. Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. serves as headquarters for all North American operations and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.