1993
ATARI LAUNCHES THE PHENOMENAL JAGUAR; THE FIRST 64-BIT MULTI-MEDIA ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM AND MADE IN THE= U.S.A.
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 June 3, 1993 =97 Atari Corp. , the founder of the video game industry and the creative force behind some of the world's= best-known titles, has announced the launch of a revolutionary new multi-media= entertainment system, the Atari Jaguar. The launch will be supported by aggressive= advertising, promotion and marketing efforts to be centered in the New York market in the fall, with a national roll-out of the product within one year. The Atari Jaguar, housed in a futuristic casing, is an interactive multi-media system based on an Atari-designed proprietary 64-bit RISC processor. The 64-bit system is four times the technology currently seen in the market today. The Atari Jaguar features over 16 million colors in 24-bit true-color graphics and produces shaded 3-D polygons to be manipulated in a= "real" world in real time. The Atari Jaguar also has real-time texture mapping and creates spectacular video effects.
The sound system is based on Atari's proprietary, high-speed, Digital Signal Processor dedicated to audio. The audio is 16-bit stereo CD quality and processes simultaneous sources of audio data, allowing for very= realistic sounds, as well as human voices, which are essential for future multi-media applications. The Atari Jaguar is truly expandable and will include a 32-bit expansion port which allows for future connection into cable and telephone networks, as well as a digital signal processing port for modem use and connection to digital audio peripherals such as DAT players.
The unit will also have a compact disc peripheral, which will be= double-speed and will play regular CD audio, CD + G (Karaoke) and Kodak's new= Photo-CD(R).
Currently, there are multiple software titles in development, which will be available on MegaCart(TM). Atari, known for such groundbreaking 3-D titles as "Battlezone 2000(R)" and "Tempest= 2000(R)," will issue spectacular new versions for the Atari Jaguar. New 3-D game titles will include "Cybermorph(R)," "Alien vs.= Predator(R)," "Jaguar Formula One Racing(TM)" and many more. Atari will license third-party publishers to join the Jaguar family. "The Atari Jaguar system will revolutionize the state of home entertainment as we see it today," said Sam Tramiel, president of Atari. "The idea of a 64-bit system is earth shattering and kids and adults will be amazed at both the imagery and manipulative capabilities. And we are proud that our entry into the multi-media entertainment category will be fully made in America." The Atari Jaguar will retail for approximately $200 and will be available nationwide next year. The Atari Jaguar packaged unit will include one software experience and a Power Pad(R) Controller with a ten-key pad and other special features.
NOTE: Atari Corp. manufactures and markets personal computers and video games for the home, office and educational marketplaces throughout the world. Atari headquarters are located at 1196 Borregas Ave., Sunnyvale, CA 94089.
ATARI AND IBM ANNOUNCE STRATEGIC MANUFACTURING CONTRACT FOR MULTIMEDIA ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 June 28, 1993 =97 Atari Corp. announced today that it has contracted with the IBM Corp.'s Charlotte, N.C., facility to= manufacture the Atari Jaguar, Atari's new 64-bit multimedia entertainment= system.
IBM's multi-year contract is valued at $500 million.
The Atari Jaguar, to be made in the United States, is an interactive multimedia entertainment system which features over 16 million colors in 24-bit true color graphics and produces shaded 3-D polygons for manipulation in a "real world" in real time. A 32-bit expansion port will allow for future connection into cable and telephone networks, a digital signal processing port for modem usage and connection to digital audio peripherals. The Jaguar will also feature a double-speed compact disc= peripheral.
"This system is clearly the wave of the future," said Sam Tramiel, president of Atari. "Because the Jaguar will feature such an array of visual and audio special effects, we wanted to work with a premier company that we are confident can manufacture the quality product we have developed."
The Charlotte-based IBM plant, which for 15 years has manufactured and developed products only for other IBM businesses, just recently began= working with outside companies to meet their production needs. The Atari Jaguar project represents one of IBM's first entries into manufacturing for the mass consumer electronics market.
"This is a wonderful opportunity to work with Atari and their new system," said Herbert L. Watkins, director of Application Solutions manufacturing at IBM Charlotte. "Everyone expects IBM to manufacture complex information technology products, and with this, we'll show that we can competitively build a sophisticated consumer product."
In addition to assembling the Jaguar, IBM will be responsible for the component sourcing, quality testing, packaging and distribution. The Jaguar, announced on June 3, is based on an Atari-designed proprietary 64-bit RISC processor that features four times the technology currently seen in the marketplace today. The sound system is based on Atari's proprietary,= high-speed, Digital Signal Processor dedicated to audio which can produce CD-quality sound. The Atari Jaguar will be available on a limited basis in the fall, focusing on the New York market. A national roll-out is expected next year, and the Jaguar will retail for approximately $200.
NOTE: Atari Corp. manufactures and markets personal computers and video games for the home, office and educational marketplaces throughout the world. Atari headquarters are located at 1196 Borregas Ave., Sunnyvale, CA 94089.
The IBM Corp.'s Charlotte facility manufactures and develops for IBM and other companies a wide variety of products, such as banking systems, automotive diagnostic systems and electronic circuit boards. The site= includes 2.3 million square feet of work space on a 1,200-acre site. Its address is 1001 W.T. Harris Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28257. Telephone: 704-594-1000.
TIME WARNER VIDEO LIBRARY AVAILABLE TO ATARI= JAGUAR SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 July 6, 1993 =97 Atari Corp. has just announced= that a library of video clips owned and licensed by Time Warner Inc., the world's largest media and entertainment company, is being made available to Atari or their third-party licensed publishers set to develop titles for the new multimedia Atari Jaguar. The long-anticipated Atari Jaguar, to be= introduced in the New York market later this fall, is a 64-bit interactive multimedia entertainment system with high-performance, true color and CD-quality= sound.
"Having access to this Time Warner library will be truly= beneficial," said Sam Tramiel, president of Atari. "With 64-bit technology, the Jaguar will allow for new heights in software experiences, and the= association with Time Warner will add to the reality of the software." The Atari Jaguar's high-level technology includes a 32-bit expansion port allowing for future connection into cable and telephone networks, as well as digital signal processing for modem use and connection to digital audio peripherals. The video output is far superior to video games available today and will allow for more realistic simulations of moving vehicles such as spaceships, cars, planes and figures.
"Our emphasis now is not only the product's affordability and the fact that the Jaguar is made in America, but also that our software titles will be a fun experience on a truly next level," Tramiel said. The Atari Jaguar will retail for approximately $200. A national roll-out is expected sometime next year.
Atari Corp. manufactures and markets personal computers and video games for the home, office and educational marketplaces throughout the world. Atari headquarters are located at 1196 Borregas Ave., Sunnyvale, CA= 94089.
ATARI CORPORATION REVEALS PLANS FOR JAGUAR= RELEASE
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 Aug. 19, 1993 =97 The Atari Jaguar, Atari Corp.'s 64-bit interactive multimedia entertainment system was unveiled at its headquarters yesterday to rave reactions and applause from the press.= Atari's goal is to establish the Jaguar as the industry standard for interactive multimedia performance, made in the United States at an affordable= price.
Open to targeted gaming publications, as well as national and local media, the news conference served to show the press actual working Jaguars. A prototype of the CD peripheral, to be introduced next year, was also shown. The press had an opportunity to view several games in development, which included titles such as "Trevor McFur in the Crescent= Galaxy," a spectacular true color, three dimensional multi-faceted game, "Alien vs. Predator," based on the blockbuster motion pictures from 20th Century Fox, and "Cybermorph," showcasing the Jaguar's ability to manipulate 3D shapes in a 3D world in real time.
In addition, Atari President Sam Tramiel announced plans to distribute 50,000 Jaguars in the New York and San Francisco markets this year, with a national roll-out next year. "We plan an aggressive advertising and marketing campaign for the fall," said Tramiel. "And by next year, we plan to sell more than 500,000 units."
The news conference also served to bring to light technical aspects of the Jaguar which had not been made public until now. Presentations were made giving an overview of the Jaguar's 64-bit system architecture and actual proprietary chips which took Atari three years to develop.
"The system's 64-bits are true 64-bits," said Tramiel.= "There is over 100 times more power in this compact unit than both the SNES and the Genesis."
ATARI ANNOUNCES JAGUAR DEVELOPERS
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 Sept. 24, 1993 =97 Atari Corp. Friday announced its initial list of developers for the Atari Jaguar 64-bit Interactive= Multimedia system.
Since July, 20 developers have signed license agreements to publish game titles for Jaguar. Additional high-profile developers and publishers are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
"Developer response to Jaguar has been overwhelming =97 we've= accomplished what we set out to do by attracting the industry's top developers," said Sam Tramiel, president of Atari. "The tremendous power of Jaguar removes the programming barriers that exist on all other gaming platforms, allowing developers to focus their energy and imagination on creating truly revolutionary video games. The technological prowess of our developers coupled with Atari's aggressive marketing and comprehensive developer= support programs will create a new industry standard for multimedia= performance."
The developer list includes:
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Krisalis Software Ltd. |
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The strength of the Jaguar platform has attracted the industry's premier developers, allowing them to immediately begin programming the industry's first 64-bit video games. Comments include:
"We're excited about the reality of an advanced video game system retailing for approximately $200 and delivering technology comparable or superior to announced systems costing over three times as much. Atari= pioneered the video game industry =97 it's good to see them at the forefront of= innovation once again." =97 Kelly Flock, executive vice president of Trimark= Interactive
"Kids, don't waste your Christmas money on something else, this Cat is the new king of the video game jungle." =97 Terry Grantham,= president of Telegames Inc. (Telegames will release "Ultimate Brain Games" and "European Soccer Challenge" for Jaguar in the spring and summer of 1994. "The 64-bit power of the Atari Jaguar allows us to move light years beyond today's game standards." =97 Kris N. Johnson, president of Beyond Games Inc. (Beyond will release "Battlewheels" for Jaguar in the second quarter of 1994.)
The power of the Jaguar development environment allows programmers= to:
=97 Create the industry's first 64-bit video games
=97 Deliver unprecedented true-color graphics, stereo CD-quality sound and animation speed
=97 Enjoy unsurpassed ease in creating real-time 3-D virtual worlds
=97 Unleash programming creativity previously hampered by the= restrictions of all other gaming platforms
Atari Corp. manufactures and markets video games and personal computers for the home, office, and educational marketplaces. The Sunnyvale-based company manufactures Jaguar products in the United States and is publicly traded on the American Stock Exchange under the symbol ATC.
ATARI'S JAGUAR GRABS FIVE HOT ACCOLADE TITLES; 64-BIT INTERACTIVE MULTIMEDIA SYSTEM ATTRACTS LEADING= PUBLISHER
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 Nov. 11, 1993 =97 Atari Corp. together with= Accolade Inc. of San Jose, Calif., a notable publisher and developer of Sega and Nintendo video games, Thursday jointly announced a licensing agreement that will enable Atari to bring five proven, hot titles from Accolade to consumers on the new 64-bit Jaguar Interactive Multimedia System by Fall 1994.
The new approach with the Jaguar by Atari brings faster, smoother= animation and enhanced sound and graphics to these hit titles.
Commenting on the company's decision to work with Atari, Accolade's chairman, Alan R. Miller stated, "That Atari Jaguar is definitely cool, new technology that is being introduced at a price point attractive to consumers. We think Atari has a real shot at establishing Jaguar as a successful system, and we want be part of that effort."
The Accolade titles for Jaguar include:
=97 Al Michaels Announces HardBall III =97 Built on the reputation of the best selling HardBall series of computer and video games, Al Michaels= Announces HardBall III features a full 162 game season, 26 accurately rendered= stadiums and the Emmy award winning commentary of Al Michaels.
=97 Brett Hull Hockey =97 This action-packed simulation features input= from and the digitized skating of the NHL's most popular All-Star player, Brett Hull. Several modes of play are offered including exhibition game, 11 game short season, 42 game half season and an 84 game full season offered by no other hockey simulation game.
=97 Bubsy in: Claws Encounters of the Furred Kind =97 The world's supply of yarnballs is seriously threatened in one of the year's most popular video games, and it is up to Bubsy Bobcat, "a hero for cryin' out loud!" to put a stop to the yarnball plundering Woolies.
=97 Charles Barkley Basketball =97 With a jump start, court-time= integrates Barkley's fast-breaking, intimidating, whatever-it-takes-to-win playing style into an intense basketball game.
=97 Jack Nicklaus' Power Challenge Golf =97 The Golfer of the Century is just one of four fully-digitized golfers in this award winning game that features two Nicklaus designed golf courses, English Turn Golf Club in New Orleans and Sherwood Country Club in California.
"Accolade's list of titles adds significantly to the Jaguar product line," said Sam Tramiel, president and chief executive officer of Atari.
"Accolade's proven titles enhanced by the 64-bit power of Jaguar will enrich the Jaguar player's library of video games with life-like sports adventures and real-time 3D animated characters that speak. The Accolade titles help us to attain our goal of delivering a high quality selection of Jaguar titles that will entertain all age groups."
Accolade is a leading worldwide publisher, developer and distributor of entertainment software for PC compatible computers and leading video game machines, including the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Nintendo, Gameboy and Sega Genesis.
Atari Corp. manufactures and markets video games and personal computers for the home, office and educational marketplaces. The Sunnyvale-based company manufactures Jaguar in the United States under contract with= IBM.
ATARI SIGNS 15 MORE NEW SOFTWARE COMPANIES;= JAGUAR MOMENTUM ACCELERATES; TOTAL OF 35 AGREEMENTS SIGNED
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 Nov. 29, 1993 =97 Atari Corp. has announced that 15 additional leading software companies have signed agreements with Atari for Jaguar =97 the world's first 64-bit interactive multimedia home= entertainment system. Jaguar is available this month in the New York and San Francisco markets at a suggested retail price of $249.95.
Bringing the total number of Jaguar licensees to 35, the following new companies have inked agreements with Atari:
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"We're pleased to add more of the top software companies to the Jaguar family," said Sam Tramiel, president of Atari. "With= Jaguar, developers enjoy unsurpassed ease in creating real-time, 3D virtual worlds. They are not bound by the technological limitations of antiquated systems or stringent programming requirements. Jaguar gives developers the freedom to spend more t on the creative process, producing games for Jaguar players that are rich in color, animation, texture and sound."
Some of the hot, new titles for Jaguar include:
=97 Activision's current IBM PC hit, "Return to Zork" will soon become available to Jaguar game players. "Return to Zork"= challenges players to solve numerous puzzles as they try to save humanity from the evil spirit, Morphius. Motion picture quality production values and= technological innovations make "Return to Zork" a challenging interactive= entertainment experience.
=97 Accolade's titles promise fast, hard-hitting sports action with= "Al Michaels Announces Hardball," "Brett Hull Hockey,"= "Charles Barkley Basketball" and "Jack Nicklaus Power Challenge Golf." Also available will be "Bubsy, in: Claws Encounters of the Furred Kind."
=97 id Software, well known for the hit "Wolfenstein 3D," is developing a Jaguar version of the much awaited first-person perspective 3D game, "Doom: Evil Unleashed." In "Doom," the player is a space marine that has been suddenly flung into hell and the safest place is behind the pistol. Atari will be the publisher and distributor of the Jaguar version of this title.
=97 Known for "Wing Commander" and "Tank Platoon," Microprose, a leading simulation company, has teamed with Atari to develop superior military games for Jaguar. Most immediately, Microprose plans to create a Jaguar version of its simulation helicopter game, "3D Gunship 2000."
=97 Gremlin, one of the top publishers in the United Kingdom, will= develop a number of its proven titles for Jaguar including, "Zool 2," based on the exploits of the Ninja for the Nth Dimension.
=97 UBI Soft International plans a number of games for Jaguar, including the famous "Jimmy Connors Pro Tennis." UBI Soft represents more than 80 percent of the entertainment software publishers in the French market, with distribution rights to more than 30 labels worldwide, including LucasArts.
Jaguar is the only video game system manufactured in the United States. Atari has contracted with IBM Corp. to manufacture the Jaguar in its= Charlotte, N.C., facility.
Atari manufactures and markets video games and personal computers for the home and educational marketplaces.
1994
ATARI JAGUAR POISED TO POUNCE NATIONALLY IN 1994; GAME SYSTEM AND SOFTWARE SELL OUT IN NEW YORK AND SAN= FRANCISCO
LAS VEGAS =97 Jan. 7, 1994 =97 Atari Corp. today announced that the= company plans to roll out Jaguar(TM) =97 the world's first 64-bit interactive= multimedia home entertainment system =97 in the first half of 1994. In addition, Jaguar and its first four software titles, "Cybermorph,"= "Raiden," "Evolution Dino-Dudes" and "Crescent Galaxy," will continue to ship steadily to stores in New York and San Francisco.
"We look forward to extending Jaguar's success in the New York and San Francisco markets by implementing a nationwide rollout of the= product in 1994," said Sam Tramiel, president of Atari. "What is= especially rewarding is customer response to Jaguar =97 it's great to see how people react to the system. We are committed to making Jaguar the world's number one game platform and this is a powerful start."
"Sales of the Jaguar couldn't be better. All of our units sold out in one day and we've got a list of more than 100 people waiting for our next shipment," said Gary Jockers, general manager, FAO Schwarz, San Francisco. "The new titles we received are selling out as fast as the systems. Our customers are clamoring to get these new games. Now that we've got all of the current game titles available for Jaguar, the demand is only increasing for more units." Atari Jaguar is the world's first 64-bit interactive multimedia home entertainment system and is the only video game system manufactured in the United States. Atari expect to deliver its Jaguar CD-peripheral in the second half of 1994 at a= suggested retail price of $200.
Atari Corp. manufactures and markets 64-bit interactive multimedia= entertainment systems, video games and personal computers for the home, office and= educational marketplaces. The Sunnyvale, Calif.-based company manufactures the Jaguar products in the United States.
ATARI JAGUAR SNARES TOP AWARDS AT= CES
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 Jan. 13, 1994 =97 Atari Corp. announced today that the Atari Jaguar 64-bit interactive multimedia game system has been named the industry's "Best New Game System" (VideoGames Magazine), "Best New Hardware System" (Game Informer) and "1993= Technical Achievement of the Year" (DieHard GameFan). The awards were presented last week at the Winter Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. In addition, VideoGames Magazine selected a Jaguar advertisement as "1993's Best Print Ad" and Electronic Games voted Jaguar's newest software title, "Tempest 2000," the "Best Game of the Show."
"We are excited the industry's premier publications have recognized Jaguar," said Sam Tramiel, president of Atari. "We developed Jaguar's 64-bit technology to raise the standard for game system= performance, making Jaguar the most powerful, affordable system on the market. It is an honor to know that the leading trade magazines and their readers= recognize our efforts."
"We created the 'Best New Game System' award specifically for= Jaguar," said Chris Gore, editor of VideoGames Magazine. "Atari developed a new game system with innovative hardware and software that delivers a= performance level currently not available in the market at a price people can afford. It eclipses 3DO as the best bang for your buck."
On Game Informer's decision to vote Jaguar "Best New Hardware= System," Editor Andy McNamara said, "With enough raw processing power to take out the big boys, Atari has a winner on its hands. Of course, it will need great software, but if games like the pack-in Cybermorph set the standard, Atari is definitely on its way." Atari Jaguar is the world's first 64-bit interactive multimedia home entertainment system and is the only video game system manufactured in the United States. The award-winning "Tempest 2000" is expected to hit stores in March. Also, Atari expects to deliver its Jaguar CD-peripheral mid-year at a suggested retail price of $200.
Atari Corp. manufactures and markets 64-bit interactive multimedia= entertainment systems, video games and personal computers for the home, office and= educational marketplaces. The Sunnyvale-based company manufactures the Jaguar products in the United States.
ATARI ANNOUNCES TOTAL OF 86 DEVELOPERS,= PUBLISHERS AND LICENSEES FOR JAGUAR
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 March 7, 1994 =97 Atari Corp. announced today that its award-winning Jaguar 64-bit game system has attracted 86 top developers, publishers and licensees since its introduction in November 1993.
Among the 48 new partners announced today are ReadySoft Inc., publisher of "Dragon's Lair," "Dragon's Lair II" and "Space Ace"; Bullfrog Productions Ltd., developer of "Populous" and "Powermonger"; Imagineer, publisher of "Wolfenstein 3D (SNES)"; Jaleco, a leading manufacturer of arcade games and home video games including "Super Bases Loaded" and "Pro-Sport Hockey"; and Sculptured Software, developer of "Mortal= Kombat" for Acclaim.
"The innovative technology unleashed by Jaguar challenges us to change our approach to developing software," said Glen Williams,= technical director, Williams Brothers Development, one of the newly signed software developers. "With Jaguar, game developing is no longer a matter of working within the machine's capabilities, but of living up to= them."
Since Jan. 1, 1994, Atari has signed 48 new partners. These= are:
Accent Media Productions
Anthill Industries
(ASG) All Systems Go
Argonaut Software Ltd.
Audio Visual Magic
Bethesda Softworks
Bjorn Joos/Kris Van Lier
Black Scorpion Software
Borta & Associates
Bullfrog Productions Ltd.
Clearwater Software
Computer Music Consulting
Cybervision
CyberWare
Delta Music Systems Inc.
Domark Group Ltd.
DTMC
Duncan Brown
Elite
E-On
EZ Score Software Inc.
GameTek Inc.
Genus Microprogramming Inc.
H2O Design Corp.
HiSoft
ICD Inc.
Imagineer Co. Ltd.
Jaleco
Limelight Media Inc.
Manley & Associates Inc.
NMS Software Ltd.
Photosurealism
PIXIS Interactive
ReadySoft Inc.
Rest Energy
Sculptured Software Inc.
Software Creations
Team Infinity
Team 17 Software Ltd.
Technation Digital World
Techtonics
Teque London Ltd.
Thrustmaster
V-Reel
Virtual Xperience
Visual Concepts
Williams Brothers
WMS Industries
"We are pleased the industry's most innovative, successful software companies continues to join the Jaguar team," said Sam Tramiel,= president of Atari. "Jaguar is the world's most powerful multimedia video game system. Consequently, this platform offers leading developers and publishers unprecedented creative and commercial opportunities."
"Atari has used cutting-edge technology to push Jaguar's system architecture beyond the industry's next natural stage and leaped ahead of its competitors in the process," said Lou Viveros, president of V-Reel and Viveros and Associates, a leading video game consulting firm. "Our games will require creativity and flexibility in the development process and outstanding system performance during game play. Consequently, the decision to develop for Jaguar was an easy one."
V-Reel will develop and market Arena Football exclusively for Jaguar. This represents the first license of the Arena Football League for home video game systems. V-Reel also plans to develop Horrorscope, a Jaguar fighting game based on the 12 characters of the Zodiac. Atari Jaguar is the world's first 64-bit interactive multimedia home entertainment system and is the only video game system manufactured in the United States. Jaguar was recently named the industry's "Best New Game System"= (VideoGames Magazine), "Best New Hardware System" (Game Informer) and= "1993 Technical Achievement of the Year" (DieHard GameFan). Atari expects to deliver its Jaguar CD-peripheral mid-year at a suggested retail price of $200.
Atari Corp., based in Sunnyvale, manufactures and markets 64-bit= interactive multimedia entertainment systems, video games and personal computers for the home, office and educational marketplaces.
ATARI SHIPS TEMPEST 2000 FOR JAGUAR; NEW JAGUAR GAME GARNERS TOP INDUSTRY AWARDS
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 April 13, 1994 =97 Wednesday Atari Corp. announced it is shipping Tempest 2000 for Jaguar, its award-winning 64-bit game= system.
Tempest 2000 was recently awarded "CES Game of Show"= (Electronic Games Magazine), "Game of the Month/March" (DieHard GameFan) and "Game of the Month/March" and "Editor's Choice Gold Award" (Electronic Gaming Monthly).
The original Tempest is one of the most popular video games in arcade history. With Tempest 2000, players get four games on one game cartridge: the original Tempest, Tempest Plus, Tempest 2000 and Tempest Duel.
"Tempest 2000 is the hottest selling title on Jaguar today," said Peter Roithmayr, senior buyer at Electronics Boutique. "We sold over 60 percent of our Tempest 2000 stock within four days; most sold in the first two days of shelf life. Tempest 2000 is in very high demand= because the popularity of the Jaguar has far exceeded the gaming industry's= expectations."
"Tempest, by itself, is worth the price of the Jag =97 Tempest 2000 for Jaguar is further proof that the next level of gaming has arrived," said Dave Halverson, DieHard GameFan.
Tempest 2000 players venture through 100 unchartered galaxies filled with "Demon Heads," a very aggressive and deadly enemy and= "Warp Bonus Tokens," which count toward bonus levels and a free instant "SuperZapper," a player's defense which can destroy everything on the screen.
"We are pleased to offer Jaguar players Tempest 2000, which has already captured the attention and praise of the industry's leading game publications," said Sam Tramiel, president of Atari Corp. "Tempest 2000 has hit the ground running =97 Jaguar's 64-bit technology has allowed us to make one of the industry's most exciting, challenging games even more outstanding."
Tempest 2000 features two-player cooperative play and more than 30= minutes of pure CD-quality techno-rave soundtrack. In addition:
=97 Powerful 3D polygons provide realistic parallax star fields
=97 Particle displays deliver realistic explosions
=97 Melt-O-Vision graphics provide stunning graphic effects
=97 Cycle shading gives players accurate depth perception
Atari Tempest 2000 is immediately available through all Atari-authorized retailers for $59.99. Atari Jaguar is the world's first 64-bit interactive multimedia home entertainment system and is the only video game system manufactured in the United States. Jaguar was recently named the industry's "Best New Game System" (VideoGames Magazine), "Best New Hardware System" (Game Informer) and "1993 Technical Achievement of the Year" (DieHard GameFan).
Atari Corp., based in Sunnyvale, manufactures and markets 64-bit= interactive multimedia entertainment systems, video games and personal computers for the home, office and educational marketplaces.
JAGUAR CD-ROM UNDER $200; ATARI REVEALS CD-ROM AND OUTSTANDING CD
CHICAGO =97 June 23, 1994 =97 Atari Corp. announced today plans to ship the anticipated CD-ROM to stores in ample time for Christmas shopping. The CD-ROM is a hardware peripheral compatible with any Jaguar 64-bit system and will sell for $199.95 (MSRP). It enables the Jaguar to play a new= generation of impeccable CD-based video games and play audio compact discs. ROM-based software in the CD-ROM allows the user to easily manipulate audio tracks and numerous custom selections when playing audio compact discs. The module includes state-of-the-art technology to play the audio and video portions of CD+G encoded discs. It also provides its own cartridge port so some applications may use the cartridge and CD at the same time.
Richard Miller, vice president of Engineering for Atari Corp., observed, "Compact Discs offer well over 700 Megabytes of raw data storage and many times that number when the data is compressed. The massive storage capacity of a CD provides enough data space to incorporate complex digitized images, full motion video sequences and CD-quality audio soundtracks into games. These things are far from being fully utilized on home platforms and the Jaguar is the perfect system to do just that."
Such complex images, sound and color are integrated parts of the numerous CD software projects currently underway. Blue Lightning(TM), scheduled for Christmas release, is a realistic high speed aerial combat experience aboard your own fighter jet. It features high quality sequenced graphics of landscapes and enemies within 36 separate levels. Using an optional cartridge, game players may save and retrieve statistics such as mission status, high scores and character information for their Blue Lightning missions. Similar information for other CD software titles may also be saved on the same cartridge.
Another of the planned CD releases for Christmas is Battlemorph(TM); a true 3-dimensional experience in over 50 all-new virtual worlds. Player chooses at will between fighter, tank or submarine with complete 3D= movement. The many features include texture mapped enemies and structures. Play inside caves, underwater, on land and in the sky. Work with the resistance to bring down the Pernitia Empire.
Anyone who enjoys a round of golf will love Jack Nicklaus Cyber Golf(TM). This CD package includes True Color photos of Murfield Golf Course with access to CD quality voice to help with each hole. Study Jack Nicklaus' golf swing to improve your own game with full motion video of him and other golfers. Also look for the CD titles Highlander(TM), Creature Shock(TM), Demolition Man(TM) and an assortment of third party products that will begin shipping fourth quarter 1994.
Thanks to the many talents of Jeff Minter, author of the award-winning Tempest 2000(TM), Atari's new CD-ROM includes the Virtual Light Machine(TM) (VLM). No other game system has VLM. VLM literally looks at audio compact discs as they are played and spontaneously produces a spectrum analysis of every incoming sound. This information is assembled in a frequency map of the music and assigned complex visual equivalents. Advanced 64-bit data processing makes it possible for the translation to take place almost faster than the ear can hear it so images are in perfect tune with the sound as it is played. The result is a stunning light show. VLM is perfect for= parties and every other listening environment where audio compact discs are= enjoyed.
Jaguar owners will enjoy VideoCD full-motion movies with an optional MPEG video cartridge. No other home system offers simultaneous access to cartridges, compact discs and a 64-bit multimedia platform.
The ability to do so much more is another key reason major developers are turning to the Jaguar. William Rehbock, vice president of Third Party Development, stated, "Our success to attract more than 150 Jaguar licensees is due, in large part, to the tools we are able to provide them. There are basic development tools and there are peripheral options.= Developers are drawn to these elements. CD is another option for them that enables them to choose the best media to distribute each product. Ultimately this gives the consumer more choices too."
"We have spent a lot of time to make certain we have packed the CD-ROM full of technologies that our developers can grow into while keeping the platform affordable for the consumer," affirmed Sam Tramiel,= president and chief executive officer of Atari Corp. "It was important to keep the price as low as possible. It was important to include all the features of CD-ROM that developers need most to please their customers. Finally, it was important to remain faithful to our 'Made In America ' foundation. The Jaguar is manufactured by IBM in the U.S. The CD-ROM will be= manufactured in the United States by Philips.
"Based on feedback we have had so far, consumers want to support an advanced gaming company that makes what it sells at home," concluded Tramiel. "We're going to give them what they want." The Atari Jaguar is the world's first 64-bit interactive multimedia home entertainment system. The Atari Jaguar and compatible software titles have been awarded multiple awards for technical achievement, design and innovation.
Jaguar is a trademark of Atari Corp. Atari is a registered trademark of Atari Corp. Other products named may be trademarks or registered= trademarks of their owning companies.
ATARI CELEBRATES 150+ JAGUAR LICENSEES; EXPANDED LIST INCLUDES PROMINENT NEW NAMES
CHICAGO =97 June 23, 1994 =97 Atari Corp. announced today that the number of signed licensed developers for the Atari Jaguar has surpassed 150.= According to William Rehbock, vice president of Third Party Development for Atari Corp., "Each signature represents another developer that is serious about the desire to develop Jaguar compatible peripherals or software. Although a few may be focused on highly specialized applications, the= majority are in the business of dazzling video game players.
"The newest list," adds Rehbock, "includes names such as 20th Century Fox Interactive, JVC Musical Industries Inc., Time-Warner Interactive and Electro Brain Corp. These are exciting names to have shown support in the way that they have. We welcome them and look forward to accommodating their needs as they intensify their Jaguar development= interests with us."
Names found among the recently inked pages include:
20th Century Fox Interactive
Acid Software
Alfaro Corporation Limited
B.S.A.
Bando Svenska AB
Beris
BitMotion Software
Bizzare Computing
Brandlewood Computers Ltd.
Cannonball Software
Celebrity Systems Inc.
Condor Software
Cross Products Ltd.
DAP Developments
Data Design
Denton Designs Ltd.
Diskimage
Electro Brain Corp.
Electrom
Extreme
Factor 5
Flair Software Ltd.
Frankenstein Software
Funcom Productions a/s
Human Soft Ltd.
i-SPACE
iTHINK Inc.
JVC Musical Industries Inc.
Kungariket Multimedia
Lost in Time Software
Malibu Interactive
Media Technology Scandinavia
Merit Industries Inc.
Michton Inc.
Miracle Designs
Nebulous Games
Neon-Buttner
Network 23 Software
NMS Software Ltd.
Odyssey Software Inc.
Orion Technologies Inc.
Phoyx
Rage Software Ltd.
Rainmaker Software Inc.
Riedel Software Prod.
Scangames Interactive
Selgus Limited
Shadowsoft Inc.
Sigma Designs
Silmarils
Sinister Development
Soft Enterprises
Softgold Gmbh
Software 2000
Software Development Systems
Spaceball Technologies Inc.
Steinberg Soft-und Hardware Gmbh
Tantalus Entertainment
Tantalus Incorporated
Twilight
Time-Warner Interactive
Visual Sciences Ltd.
Wave Quest Inc.
"Once again," observes Sam Tramiel, president and chief= executive officer of Atari Corp., "as I check with our developer support people I find that they are assembling more batches of Jaguar development packages. It is an extremely promising sight because these systems represent a lot more consumer products in the months ahead. All of these people are working hard and they sure are busy ... as they should be," adds a smiling Tramiel. The Atari Jaguar is the world's first 64-bit interactive multimedia home entertainment system. The Atari Jaguar and compatible software titles have been awarded multiple awards for technical achievement, design and innovation.
Jaguar is a trademark of Atari Corp. Atari is a registered trademark of Atari Corp. Other products named may be trademarks or registered= trademarks of their owning companies.
TEMPEST 2000 SOUNDTRACK AVAILABLE ON= CD
CHICAGO =97 June 23, 1994 =97 Consumer Electronics Show =97 Atari= Corporation announced today that the popular soundtrack of Tempest 2000 has been= remastered for a new special edition audio compact disc to be made available in the third quarter of 1994.
"A lot of people ask if Atari would ever consider releasing the incredible soundtrack from Tempest 2000," states James Grunke, Director of Music and Audio for Atari Corporation. "The music has wide appeal to the large dance and rave audiences who love the techno style of the Tempest 2000 music."
Although some of the specifications are being retained for the formal release in a few months, Tempest 2000 Soundtrack will include new versions of the music used in the actual game cartridge PLUS bonus tracks of= previously unreleased material. Tempest 2000 is Atari's blockbuster 64-bit video game title compatible with the Atari Jaguar game system.
Tempest 2000 Soundtrack will be available through Atari retailers, select music stores, or directly from Atari's own Customer Service Department. For more information, contact Atari by writing: Tempest 2000 Soundtrack, Atari Corporation, P.O. Box 61657, Sunnyvale, CA 94089-1657. Tempest 2000 Soundtrack will be priced under $15. The Atari Jaguar is the world's first 64-bit interactive multimedia home entertainment system. The Jaguar and compatible game titles have been awarded multiple awards for technical achievement, design and innovation.
JAGUAR HITS ROAD WITH E.G.M. SUPERTOUR '94; ATARI WOWS SERIOUS GAMERS WITH 64-BIT ENERGY
CHICAGO =97 June 23, 1994 =97 Atari Corp. announced today that it has hit the road with a summer long exhibition of the Atari Jaguar in many popular shopping malls across America. The SuperTour '94 is the second annual tour co-sponsored by Electronic Gaming Monthly (E.G.M.); an excellent source of information covering the explosive world of video games. The show tour is also sponsored by Hero Illustrated; the number one name in comic= guides.
SuperTour '94 offers an opportunity for merchants and enthusiastic game players to see, feel and hear the newest innovations in gaming entertainment including the Atari Jaguar, the world's first and only 64-bit interactive multimedia home entertainment system. The Jaguar and compatible game titles have been awarded multiple awards for technical achievement, design and innovation worldwide.
"We want gamers to compare our system with others," states Sam Tramiel, president and chief executive officer of Atari Corp. "The E.G.M. SuperTour encourages those comparisons with side-by-side competitions and demonstrations. Comparisons always sell more machines for= Atari."
The E.G.M. SuperTour '94 is scheduled through September in shopping malls from Charlotte and Orlando to Los Angeles and Seattle; with cities like Chicago and Denver along the way. The show attracts gamers and comic collectors with a wide variety of contests, games and prizes including a full-size professional pinball machine.
"We are getting flooded with calls," notes Donald Thomas, director of Customer Service for Atari Corp. "Gamers want us to know that they saw the Jaguar at some of the preseason shows and their nearest store sold out already. They want to know where to find more."
The SuperTour '94 show schedule may be found in the most current issue of Electronic Gaming Monthly. The announced tour stops include the following cities:
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Jaguar is a trademark of Atari Corp. Atari is a registered trademark of Atari Corp. Other products named may be trademarks or registered= trademarks of their owning companies.
JAGUAR MANIA INSPIRES NETWORK= GAMING
CHICAGO =97 June 23, 1994 =97 Consumer Electronics Show =97 Atari= Corporation announced today that Jaguar owners will be connecting their systems together and playing networked games within the next 4 months. The network technology on the Jaguar can support up to 32 simultaneous game players depending on the software. Networking and Atari's new Voice/Modem for the Jaguar are two innovative ways Jaguar owners can play complex games against each other with multiple systems by Christmas '94.
"We are extremely excited about all of this," said Richard Miller, Vice President of Engineering for Atari Corporation. "Now 64-bit gaming can be an exciting multi-player experience as well as an individual pleasure."
The Jaguar networking package enables network compatible Jaguar games to be played on different systems up to 300 feet apart from each other. The system uses standard RJ11 phone line cable and implements reliable differential-pair technology. The first network game published by Atari will be Doom(TM). Many other titles will be announced soon thereafter.
The Atari Jaguar is the world's first and only 64-bit interactive= multimedia home entertainment system. The Atari Jaguar and compatible software titles have been awarded multiple awards for technical achievement, design and innovation worldwide.
NOTE: Jaguar is a trademark of Atari Corporation. Atari is a registered trademark of Atari Corporation. Other products named may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their owning companies.
GAMERS PLAY JAGUAR ON THE= TELEPHONE
CHICAGO =97 June 23, 1994 =97 Consumer Electronics Show =97 Atari= Corporation announced today that playing Jaguar games with opponents over a single telephone line will be a reality in the 4th quarter of 1994. New technology, developed by Phylon Communications Inc., leaders in advanced fax/modem/voice technology, permits two users to play Atari Jaguar video games against each other. Utilizing the same phone line, they may speak to each other as they play. The game experience is truly shared by the two gamers although they may be miles apart from each other.
The Jaguar Voice/Data Communicator uses headsets for the players to hear each other speak as well as listen to the stereo benefits of the game being played. Users will also have call waiting indications, both at local and remote ends, to pause and resume a game due to an interrupting call in the middle of a game. Thus, this product can be enjoyed by the players without being a nuisance to others in the home. "By offering our= voice-plus-data technology to leading OEMs and systems manufacturers, like Atari, Phylon is pioneering multimedia communications technology on the dial-up= network," noted Dr. Hamdi El-Sassi, President and CEO of Phylon.
The first games planned to exploit the features of the Jaguar Voice/Data Communicator are Doom(TM), Club Drive(TM) and Iron Soldier(TM).= "Reports I have been receiving from Jaguar owners is that they are ready for this technology. We have it and we are going to offer it this Christmas," announced Sam Tramiel, President and CEO of Atari Corporation. "By reviewing each game we have in development, we have been able to make= certain each one integrates every bit of power we can put into it." The Jaguar Voice/Data Communicator is compatible with Atari Jaguar; the world's first and only 64-bit interactive multimedia home entertainment system. The Atari Jaguar and compatible software titles have been awarded multiple awards for technical achievement, design and innovation worldwide. The Jaguar Voice/Data Communicator is packed complete with stereo headset and is= engineered for user friendly, plug 'n' go operation. Future software options will enable the Jaguar Voice/Data Communicator to access existing and upcoming online services on the Information SuperHighway.
JAG-WARE DEBUTS FOR JAGUAR= AFICIONADOS
CHICAGO =97 June 23, 1994 =97 Consumer Electronics Show =97 Atari= Corporation announced today a new full-line gift catalog especially for Atari Jaguar gamers. The catalog, shown publicly for the first time at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Chicago, features nearly 20 popular consumer items fashionably adorned with the licensed Jaguar logo. The Atari Jaguar is the world's first 64-bit interactive multimedia home entertainment system and is the only system of its kind manufactured in the United States. The Jaguar has been awarded multiple awards for technical achievement, design and innovation.
Effective July 1, 1994, consumers throughout the world may order products exclusive to the new Jag-Ware collection. Items range in price as low as $2.95, but no item is more than $100 and include watches, T-Shirts, waist packs, caps and more.
"We have been bombarded by Jaguar users asking for items they can wear or give as gifts with the Jaguar logo on it," explains Mr. Greg LaBrec, Director of Creative Services for Atari Corporation. "The traditional and new Atari consumer has fallen in love with the Jaguar and wants to show everyone that they've already moved up to the world of 64-bit entertainment technology."
Offering apparel and gift items is new for Atari and is a reflection of the growing popularity of the Jaguar system and Atari's commitment behind it. The items selected in the 8-page, full-color catalog have been carefully chosen by Atari with the advice of Norscot Group, Inc.; suppliers of= Corporate namesake specialty catalogs for nearly a quarter century. Each item was chosen on merits of popularity, durability and practical application. All items are protected by a 100% satisfaction guarantee and typically shipped within 48 hours as long as they are in stock.
The Jag-Ware catalog will be mailed to existing Jaguar owners registered with Atari Corporation within the next 120 days. Those wishing to obtain a copy sooner may request one by mail by writing: "JAG-WARE= Catalog", Atari Corporation, P.O. Box 61657, Sunnyvale, CA 94089-1657. Catalogs will also be supplied with new Jaguar systems. Additionally, modem users will find text based copies of the catalog distributed in publications such as Atari Explorer Online and Silicon Times Report.
Those wishing to place orders may call 800-653-3313 toll free.= International orders accepted by calling 414-241-3313. Faxed orders accepted by dialing 414-241-4904. Orders may be mailed to: Norscot Group, Inc., 10510 North Port Washington Road, Mequon, WI 53092. Money Orders, MasterCard, Visa and American Express accepted. Dealers and Distributors should place their fall orders now.
ATARI CORPORATION ANNOUNCES IT HAS THE RESOURCES IN PLACE TO FULFILL ITS BUSINESS PLAN FOR 1994
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 June 29, 1994 =97 During its June 17, 1994 Annual Shareholders meeting, Atari disclosed its plans to ship approximately= 300,000 units in 1994 of the Atari Jaguar, the world's only 64 bit multimedia= entertainment system made in the U.S. At the meeting Sam Tramiel, President, stated, "Our focus now is software, we plan to have 30 to 50 titles for sale by Thanksgiving. Some of these software titles will be published directly by Atari and others by independent third party publishers. There are now over 150 third party software companies that are licensees on the Jaguar platform."
At the Consumer Electronic Show, last week in Chicago, Atari and third party publishers demonstrated over 25 new software titles coming this year on Jaguar. Atari also debuted its new double speed Jaguar CD-ROM peripheral, which is expected to ship in the 4th quarter 1994 and will retail at= $199.95. Atari and third party publishers plan to utilize the CD-ROM to integrate full motion video into video games.
Commenting on recent rumors of financial difficulties, August Liguori, Chief Financial Officer, said, "We have no control over statements made by a money manager who we understand has taken a short position in Atari put options using Mr. Dan Dorfman as a spokesman on CNBC. We believe that with $35 million in cash and marketable securities, that we have the resources in place to finance the business operations for 1994."
Atari Corporation designs and markets interactive multimedia= entertainment systems, including Jaguar, the world's only 64 bit system. Atari is= headquartered at 1196 Borregas Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94089.
JAGUAR VERSION OF WOLFENSTEIN 3D RESTORES= ORIGINAL PLOT, UNLEASHES THE POWER OF 64-BIT TECHNOLOGY; 64-BIT TECHNOLOGY OF THE U.S.-MADE JAGUAR FLEXES ITS MUSCLE ONCE AGAIN
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 Aug. 1, 1994 =97 Wolfenstein 3D, a contemporary= cult favorite on the PC platform, now is available on the industry's most= advanced video game system, the award-winning Atari Jaguar.
"Fans of Wolfenstein 3D were disappointed with the Super Nintendo version of the game," explained Jay Wilbur of ID Software, the company that created Wolfenstein 3D.
"In both the original Wolfenstein 3D and the 64-bit Jaguar version, the player assumes the role of William J. 'B.J.' Blazkowicz as he blasts away the Nazi enemy," he added. "But Nintendo insisted on watering down the game and turned it into a generic shoot 'em up romp against generic bad guys."
"Wolfenstein 3D continues to be a favorite of PC owners," stressed Atari Corp. President Sam Tramiel. "We wanted to be faithful to the original plot while exploiting the Jaguar's 64-bit technology to take the game to a higher level."
With the Jaguar system's cutting-edge graphics and resolution, game players experience "you are there'' perspectives. They have unlimited character movement in a virtual war zone and can call upon a complete= arsenal of weapons, including flamethrowers, machine guns and rocket launchers. Players can conduct six missions with 30 levels of bullet-riddled mayhem =97 a guaranteed challenge for even the most seasoned player.
"The smooth and fast graphics of Wolfenstein 3D for the Jaguar system are the best I've seen," said Zach Meston, author of the= upcoming book, "Atari Jaguar Official Games Secrets," and a contributing editor to Video Games Magazine and Wired. "Unlike versions for other systems, Jaguar's Wolfenstein 3D has realistic bullets, realistic blood, digitized sound and real 3D action."
Wolfenstein 3D retails for $59.99 and is available at Electronic= Boutique, Babbages and other electronics and toy stores nationwide. Since its release, the Atari Jaguar 64-bit game system has been named the industry's "Best New Game System'' (VideoGames Magazine), "Best New Hardware System'' (Game Informer) and "1993 Technical Achievement of the Year," (DieHard GameFan). The Jaguar is the only video game system manufactured in the United States.
More than 150 developers are currently preparing titles for the Atari Jaguar. Wolfenstein 3D is one of approximately 30-50 games scheduled to be released in time for the holiday buying season. Some of the Jaguar titles expected before year's end include Alien Vs. Predator, Doom, Kasumi Ninja, Iron Soldier and Troy Aikman Football.
Atari Corp., based in Sunnyvale, designs and markets 64-bit interactive multimedia entertainment systems and video games.
ATARI AND WILLIAMS ENTERTAINMENT TO CREATE 64-BIT VERSIONS OF POPULAR ARCADE GAMES; INNOVATIVE DEAL BRINGS HOT GAMES TO BOTH JAGUAR FANS AND PC GAME PLAYERS
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 Sept. 26, 1994 =97 Atari and Williams Entertainment have agreed to work together to bring vastly enhanced versions of Williams' popular, classic arcade games to the Atari 64-bit Jaguar system and high performance PCs.
According to the licensing agreement, Atari will exploit the Jaguar system's 64-bit power to create new versions of such Williams' hits as Joust, Defender and Robotron. These new games will offer features such as first-person perspectives in a realistic, three-dimensional environment. Atari will then market these games for its Jaguar system, while Williams will license the new versions to market them for high performance PCs.
"64-bit power will make our best games even better by creating a compelling, immersive, experience for players," said Byron Cook, president of Williams Entertainment. "We are very excited about the Atari Jaguar 64-bit platform and are happy to support it with our finest titles."
This is not the first cooperative venture between Williams and Atari. Williams and Atari have been promoting the Jaguar 64-bit system with= Williams' Troy Aikman NFL Football through radio promotions in 25 top markets= nationwide. Williams will make the game available in November on the Jaguar. Williams also is publishing a Jaguar version of its popular game Double Dragon Five, which also will be available in November.
Williams Entertainment Inc. is the new home video subsidiary of WMS Industries, the company that created Mortal Kombat and NBA Jam video= games.
Since its release in November '93 Atari's Jaguar game system has been named the industry's Best New Game System (Video Games Magazine), Best New Hardware Systems (Game Informer) and 1993 Technical Achievement of the Year (Die Hard Game Fan). Jaguar, the world's first 64-bit video game system, retails for $249 and is the only video game system manufactured in the United States.
Atari Corp., based in Sunnyvale, Calif., designs and markets 64-bit interactive multimedia entertainment systems and video games.
NOTE TO EDITORS: Jaguar is a trademark of Atari Corp. Atari is a= registered trademark of Atari Corp. Other product names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their owning companies.
ALIEN VS. PREDATOR COMES ALIVE ON 64-BIT ATARI JAGUAR; VIDEO GAME MAGAZINE REVIEWERS RAVING ABOUT JAGUAR'S "BEST GAME TO DATE"
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 Oct. 3, 1994 =97 Move over Mortal Kombat II, on= October 21 the most sought-after video game will arrive in stores across the= country.
The advanced first-person perspective version of Alien Vs. Predator, available only on the award-winning 64-bit Jaguar system by Atari, is= already being considered one of the best game titles in video game history by people "in the know" =97 the video game reviewers.
"Alien Vs. Predator is the best 3-D action game that I have ever played =97 the graphics and game play are second to none," claimed= Editor-in-Chief Dave Halverson of Die Hard Game Fan. "If you own a Jaguar, you must own this game and if you don't own a Jag, well, it's time to get one. More games are on the way."
Roaring into stores on October 21 at a suggested retail price of $69.99, Alien Vs. Predator for the 64-bit Jaguar blows away prior versions of the game with the most realistic graphics available, amazing digitized sound effects and increased play variety. Alien Vs. Predator is a Twentieth= Century Fox licensed property based on the films of the same names. Gamers can choose the Predator, Alien or the Colonial Marine as they battle through different theaters of combat including the Predator Ship, the Marine= Training Base and the Alien Ship, enjoying hours of different types of= play.
"I was overwhelmed by the cutting-edge graphics and the innovative game play of Alien Vs. Predator =97 no question, it's the best Jaguar game to date," said Paul Anderson of Game Informer. "The sheer size of Alien Vs. Predator is amazing =97 I've already spent 40-plus hours= playing as the Marine and haven't even tried the Alien or Predator assignments. Alien Vs. Predator will keep the attention of even the most seasoned game players."
"The sophisticated technology of the Jaguar platform allows for the best in stop-motion animation, giving each character smooth, realistic movements, and digitized sound effects that provide a dynamic audio= environment," said software developer Purple Hampton. "Alien Vs. Predator is the best demonstration to date of what 64-bit technology can provide in terms of sophisticated graphics, sound quality and game play."
Atari's Jaguar game system has approximately 30 software titles planned for release before the holiday season. Popular titles in the works include Dragon =97 The Bruce Lee Story, Doom, Rayman, Troy Aikman Football, and= Kasumi Ninja.
"We believe that Alien Vs. Predator has true mega-hit= potential," said Atari Corporation President Sam Tramiel. "This is a great example of Atari developing new games that use the full technological capacity of the 64-bit Jaguar and taking home video games above and beyond where they've been to date."
In support of this landmark game and the Jaguar system, Atari has= launched an aggressive, multi-million dollar advertising campaign that includes a specific television ad for Alien Vs. Predator. The advertising schedule includes national cable advertising in addition to programming in 19 of the top spot markets that will deliver more than 300 million targeted media impressions.
Since its release in November 1993, Atari's Jaguar game system has been named the industry's "Best New Game System" (Video Games= Magazine), "Best New Hardware System" (Game Informer) and "1993= Technical Achievement of the Year" (DieHard GameFan). The Jaguar is the only video game system manufactured in the United States.
Atari Corp. markets interactive multimedia entertainment systems,= including Jaguar, the world's only 64-bit system, and the only video game system manufactured in the United States. Atari is headquartered at 1196 Borregas Ave., Sunnyvale, Calif. 94089.
Note to Editors: Jaguar is a trademark of Atari Corp. Atari is a= registered trademark of Atari Corp. Other products named maybe trademarks or registered trademarks of their owning companies.
ALIEN and PREDATOR are trademarks of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corp. and used under sublicense from Activision.
ATARI JOINS FORCES WITH VIRTUALITY TO OFFER HOME VIRTUAL REALITY GAMES BY CHRISTMAS 1995
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 Oct. 25, 1994 =97 Atari Corporation , the name that created the video game industry, has joined forces with Virtuality Group PLC, the leader in virtual reality technology and arcade games, to create the world's first immersive virtual reality games for the home market.
According to the just signed agreement, Virtuality will finalize= development of a consumer version of its head mounted display technology (virtual= reality headset) that Atari will manufacture and market for use with the Atari Jaguar 64-bit multimedia home entertainment system. Terms of the agreement call for Atari to contribute toward the development cost and pay a license to Virtuality to produce and market the product. The virtual reality headset will be available to consumers by Christmas 1995 with a targeted price of less than $200.
"The Atari Jaguar platform is the only 64-bit system currently on the market and is ideally suited for immersive, virtual reality= games," said Jon Waldern, chief executive officer of Virtuality. "This deal propels both companies to the forefront in the home market for virtual reality gaming. Thanks to the Atari Jaguar, fans of our many hit arcade titles will soon be able to play their favorite virtual reality games at home."
Atari President Sam Tramiel explained that both Atari and Virtuality have worldwide reputations for offering the most advanced gaming technology and performance. "Combining Virtuality's ability to deliver low cost solutions for virtual reality technology applications with the processing power capabilities of the 64-bit Atari Jaguar will result in a very high quality virtual reality experience at a very affordable price," he said.
Tramiel added, "By Christmas 1995, Jaguar owners will already be wearing their virtual reality headsets and playing virtual reality games at home. While others in the industry play catch up trying to offer 32 and 64-bit systems, Atari is extending our technological advantage over our competitors by delivering a high-quality virtual reality= experience."
Atari Corporation markets interactive multimedia entertainment systems, including Jaguar, the world's only 64-bit game system, and the only video game system manufactured in the United States.
Virtuality Group PLC is the world leader in the design of high quality virtual reality technology, arcade gaming systems and software.
TIME WARNER CABLE'S FULL SERVICE NETWORK(TM) TO ADD ATARI JAGUAR 64-BIT GAMES
MAITLAND, Fla. =97 Nov. 14, 1994 =97 Time Warner Cable's Full Service= Network (FSN) President Tom Feige and Atari Corp.'s CEO Sam Tramiel announced Monday an agreement to offer Atari's Jaguar 64-bit interactive video games on demand to FSN customers.
Jaguar, the world's first and only 64-bit interactive game system= features high-speed animation, textured three-dimensional color images and graphics, and CD-quality sound.
Consumers will access the Atari games on the Full Service Network using the 64-bit Jaguar game system device, which processes more than 100 times as much data at one time than 16-bit games, and twice as much as 32-bit game systems. This significantly increases speed and lets game players experience superior graphic performance and animation action. Through the Full Service Network, the Atari games are digitally compressed and stored on magnetic hard drives, and downloaded to the game device at the consumers' request.
In addition, using a Hewlett Packard DeskJet 550C printer, consumers will be able to print out game instructions with full-color graphics.= Approximately 30 Atari Jaguar game titles will be available on the Full Service Network next year. "We're proud to offer consumers games on demand from Atari Jaguar because it's the most advanced and powerful game system available today," said Full Service Network President Tom Feige. "When we compared the graphics and capabilities of the game systems on the market, Atari Jaguar was the clear choice for us."
"Time Warner Cable's Full Service Network is the network of the future," said Atari President and CEO Sam Tramiel. "Atari's Jaguar system brings the most sophisticated hardware and games to the network. We are proud that Time Warner picked Atari Jaguar for the Full Service Network."
Since its release in November 1993, Atari's Jaguar game system has been named the industry's "Best New Game System'' by Video Games Magazine, "Best New Hardware System'' by Game Informer, and "1993 Technical Achievement of the Year'' by DieHard GameFan. Jaguar is the only video game system manufactured in the United States.
Time Warner Cable is the nation's second largest cable television= operator with 7.3 million customers in 34 states, and serves more than 500,000= customers in its Florida division.
Time Warner Cable's Full Service Network is a digital, interactive= television network which merges cable, computer, and telephone technologies to provide customers greater choice, control, and convenience in accessing information and services.
Atari Corp. markets interactive multimedia entertainment systems,= including Jaguar, the world's only 64-bit game system, and the only video game system manufactured in the United States.
ATARI AND SEGA TRANSACTIONS CLOSED= TODAY
SUNNYVALE, Calif., Nov. 16 =97 Atari Corporation announced today that it has received regulatory approval in connection with its agreements with Sega and the transactions have closed.
Sega has paid Atari $50 million (Atari's net being less contingent legal fees and costs) in exchange for a license from Atari covering the use of a library of patents. In addition, Sega has made an equity investment in Atari of $40 million at a common share price of $8.50. Finally, Sega and Atari have entered into cross licensing agreements through the year 2001. The cross licensing agreement also allows the two companies to publish on each of their respective platforms.
Commenting on the announcement, Sam Tramiel, president of Atari, said, "We are very pleased to have closed these transactions. These funds will be used to increase software development for the Atari Jaguar as well as increased promotional activity and other working capital= requirements."
Since its release in November 1993, Atari's Jaguar game system has been named the industry's "Best New Game System" (Video Game Magazine), "Best New Hardware System" (Game Informer) and "1993= Technical Achievement of the Year" (DieHard GameFan). The Jaguar is the only video game system manufactured in the United States.
Atari Corp. markets interactive multimedia entertainment systems,= including Jaguar, the world's only 64-bit system, and the only video game system manufactured in the United States. Atari is headquartered at 1196 Borregas Ave., Sunnyvale, CA 94089.
ATARI JAGUAR STALKS JAPAN
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 Nov. 21, 1994 =97 Atari Corp. Monday announced that the Atari Jaguar, the world's only 64-bit video game system, will now be available at all 25 Toys "R" Us stores and other selected stores in Japan.
Mumin Corp. of Tokyo will handle distribution and sales. Japanese= consumers will be able to test-drive the Atari Jaguar Interactive Multimedia System at special demonstration kiosks in Toys "R" Us stores.
"The Japanese are very serious about their video game systems, and they will choose the system with the best graphics and most= sophisticated playing environment," said Sam Tramiel, chief executive officer of Atari Corp. "We think that if they are given the chance to compare, Japanese gamers will choose Atari Jaguar."
The launch in Japan marks another significant milestone in building worldwide distribution for the Atari Jaguar system. Introduced in October of last year, the Jaguar was only available in New York and San Francisco during last year's important holiday shopping season. Today, the Jaguar is available throughout the United States, Canada, Europe and, now,= Japan.
"We have the best game system in the business, hit games like Alien Vs. Predator and the soon-to-be-released Doom, and we are expanding our distribution," Tramiel added. "The momentum for Jaguar is building every day."
Since its release in November 1993, Atari's Jaguar game system has been named the industry's "Best New Game System" (Video Games= Magazine), "Best New Hardware System" (Game Informer) and "1993= Technical Achievement of the Year" (DieHard GameFan).
Atari Corp. markets interactive multimedia entertainment systems,= including Jaguar, the world's only 64-bit game system, and the only video game system manufactured in the United States.
ATARI'S ALIEN VS. PREDATOR HITS BIG IN= STORES
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 Nov. 22, 1994 =97 Atari Corporation Tuesday= announced that initial production of its new Alien Vs. Predator game, launched October 21st in stores around the world, has nearly sold-out.
Atari is working with suppliers to rush additional quantities to stores in anticipation of increasing pre-Christmas demand for the game. Alien Vs. Predator utilizes the sophisticated graphics and power available from the 64-bit Atari Jaguar.
"In less than three weeks, over 50% of our installed base purchased Alien Vs. Predator," said Sam Tramiel, CEO of Atari Corporation.= "This is the most enthusiastic reception we've ever seen for a game and is= indicative of what a truly great game Alien Vs. Predator really is. We have also seen a strong increase in sales for the Jaguar system coinciding with the release of this game and the launch of our expanded advertising program."
Atari's new Alien Vs. Predator for the 64-bit Jaguar system provides such realistic graphics and life-like digitized sound effects that it= creates a compelling, first-person perspective. Gamers can choose to be the= Predator, Alien or Colonial Marine as they battle through the Predator ship, the Marine Training Base or the Alien ship, enjoying hours of entertainment. Alien Vs. Predator is licensed from Twentieth Century Fox and is based on the films of the same names.
Key game reviewers have been effusive in their praise for Alien Vs. Predator. Paul Anderson of Game Informer Magazine stated: "I was= overwhelmed with the cutting edge graphics and the innovative game play of AVP =97 no question it's the best Jaguar game to-date."
"Alien Vs. Predator is the best 3-D action game that I have ever played =97 the graphics and game play are second to none," wrote Dave Halverson, editor-in-chief of DieHard GameFan. "If you own a Jaguar, you must own this game, and if you don't own a Jag, it's time to get one. More games are on the way!"
Atari plans to release more startlingly realistic games. Games scheduled for late November release include Club Drive, Dragon: the Bruce Lee Story and Doom. December releases include Iron Soldier, Val D'Isere Skiing, Kasumi Ninja, Zool II and Bubsy.
Since its release in November 1993, Atari's Jaguar game system has been named the industry's "Best New Game System" (Video Games= Magazine), "Best New Hardware System" (Game Informer) and "1993= Technical Achievement of the Year" (DieHard GameFan).
Atari Corporation markets interactive multimedia entertainment systems, including Jaguar, the world's only 64-bit game system, and the only video game system manufactured in the United States.
ATARI UNLEASHES AN ARRAY OF JAGUAR GAME TITLES; THE 64-BIT JAGUAR BOASTS THE RELEASE OF FOUR NEW TITLES
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 Nov. 28, 1994 =97 The video game jungle is rapidly becoming Jaguar territory as Atari plans to enlarge its current library with the release of four new game titles in November, including the highly anticipated Doom, the PC cult favorite.
"The Jaguar version of Doom is the best version we've developed for any video game platform," said Jay Wilbur, president of id= Software.
Atari also is releasing three additional titles including Checkered Flag, Club Drive and Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story.
"These game titles are just the tip of the iceberg of what's to come =97 we'll have more than 20 titles available for the Atari Jaguar by year's end," stated Sam Tramiel, president and chief executive officer of Atari Corp. "Our software library will continue to grow rapidly in the coming months and the coming year with titles designed to capitalize on the revolutionary technology of the 64-Bit Jaguar system."
With Jaguar's cutting-edge graphics, 24-bit true color and CD-quality sound, game players experience the latest in video game technology.= Following is an outline of planned Atari releases for late November 1994:
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Since its release, Atari's Jaguar game system has been named the= industry's "Best New Game System" (VideoGames Magazine), "Best New Hardware System" (GameInformer) and "1993 Technical Achievement of the Year" (DieHard GameFan). The Jaguar is the only video game system manufactured in the United States.
Over 200 third-party developers have agreed to create new titles for the Atari Jaguar. The November game releases are part of more than 20 games scheduled for availability prior to the holidays. Other Jaguar titles= expected before year's end include Iron Soldier, Kasumi Ninja, Val D'Isere Skiing & Snowboarding, Zool2 and Bubsy.
Atari Corp. markets interactive multimedia entertainment systems,= including Jaguar, the world's only 64-bit system, and the only video game system manufactured in the United States. Atari is headquartered at 1196 Borregas Avenue, Sunnyvale, Calif. 94089.Game Descriptions of November '94 Jaguar Game Releases =97 Checkered Flag =97 Players choose sound and visual= effects, music and pit crews and one of ten tracks. Once practice runs are complete, drivers take a crack at the qualifying heats. Then move on to single and tournament race options and make a run for the checkered flag!
"This one-player game offers a selection of more than 10 courses, different cars and equipment, a pallet of car colors to choose from, even changeable weather conditions. Checkered Flag has a strong Virtual Racing feel." (Gamepro, July 1994) =97 Club Drive =97 Choosing from four= different themes, players cruise through the streets of San Francisco in a souped-up hot rod or plow through an Old West town in a futuristic speed machine picking up randomly placed energy balls. Players will never get enough once they strap in and join the 64-bit club.
"It's like Cybermorph on the ground! Race through and explore= several different scenes, the likes of which have never been seen in any driving game. These polygon graphics might take you to places you've never= been." (Video Games Magazine, June 1994) =97 Doom =97 Doom, which has received a= national cult following, is an ultra-fast virtual reality showcase that plunges the player deep into a 3D world filled with legions of gruesome fiends. As a renegade marine, players use both state-of-the-art weaponry and their own wits to survive. Dramatic, high-speed animation, incredible graphics and Jaguar's uncompromising multimedia realism bring this PC favorite to 64-bit life.
"This game has already created a sensation on the PC side and is an unqualified addiction for those lucky enough to play it." (Video Games Magazine in June 1994). =97 Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story =97 The spirit of martial arts master Bruce Lee lives on in this dangerously life-like combat simulation based on his biographical film. Players apply discipline and a devastating array of age-old fighting techniques to subdue opponents more cunning than the real Bruce Lee ever faced.
"Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story is a superb 'purist' kung-fu fighting game for Jaguar." (Electronic Gaming Monthly)
Note to Editors: Jaguar is a trademark of Atari Corp. Atari is a= registered trademark of Atari Corp. Other products named may be trademarks or= registered trademarks of their owning companies.
DOOM CREATORS UNLEASH 64-BIT HELL ON THE ATARI JAGUAR
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 Dec. 2, 1994 =97 Fans of the cult video game DOOM can now experience what Jay Wilbur, president of Id Software, the company that created the popular game, describes as "the most powerful version of the game on any video game system."
According to reports from stores nationwide, the Jaguar version of DOOM is already selling briskly.
DOOM is an ultra-fast virtual reality showcase that plunges the player deep into a 3D world filled with legions of gruesome fiends. The Atari Jaguar is the first 64-bit video game system in the world.
Unlike versions for other video game systems, the Jaguar version of DOOM:
o Offers nine additional levels of play, including improved,= custom-designed levels available only on the Jaguar.
o Exploits the Jaguar's 64-bit power to deliver compelling, realistic game play. For example, the monsters that populate the Jaguar version's hellish world are not flat, two-dimensional characters like they are on other systems, but awesome, three-dimensional beings. Catch a side-view as they walk around you, or turn-around and shoot them in the back!
o Uses 65,000 colors =97 compared to 256 on other systems =97 for= advanced lighting and shading effects that provide the most immersive, first-person experience available.
o Allows for two players. Until now, this was only possible on the= personal computer version of DOOM. Although owners of other video game systems can play their own, more limited version of DOOM, they cannot play each other. Jaguar fans will be able to link up two Jaguar systems and either team up against the gruesome fiends or challenge each other to a death match.
o Offers a special save feature so Jaguar players can go back to the last completed level and continue their mission through the bowels of= hell.
o Takes advantage of the full size of the television screen. "We didn't just license the code to Atari, we developed the Jaguar version of DOOM ourselves," explained American McGee, a game designer at Id Software, the company that created DOOM. "We streamlined and improved the graphics and made the game even more compelling," he added.
The favorable reviews already are beginning to pour in. Video Games magazine described the game as an "unqualified addiction for those lucky enough to play it. " The reviewer added, "This one could be a guaranteed system-seller for those considering a Jaguar= purchase."
An aggressive marketing campaign will promote the Jaguar version of DOOM and will include new television commercials and print ads. The ad campaign will run in December, in time for the holiday shopping season.
Since its release in November 1993, Atari's Jaguar game system has been named the industry's "Best New Game System" (Video Games= Magazine), "Best New Hardware System" (Game Informer) and "1993= Technical Achievement of the Year" (DieHard GameFan).
Atari Corp. markets interactive multimedia entertainment systems,= including Jaguar, the world's first 64-bit game system, and the only video game system manufactured in the United States.
ATARI RELEASES MORE JAGUAR GAME TITLES; FIVE NEW GAMES AVAILABLE FOR HOLIDAY GIVING
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 Dec. 9, 1994 =97 Continuing to add momentum to its growing catalog of software, Atari Corp. Friday announced the release of five new games for the holiday-selling season.
The exciting array of coming new games includes "Kasumi Ninja," "Zool2," "Bubsy," "Iron Soldier" and "Val d'Isere Skiing & Snowboarding."
"We're adding more Jaguar games every month and we'll continue to add to our library of titles throughout 1995," stated Sam Tramiel, president and chief executive officer of Atari. "Consumers can buy the affordable Jaguar knowing that a wide variety of compelling games will be available to exploit the revolutionary technology of the only 64-bit system on the market."
With Jaguar's cutting-edge graphics, 24-bit true color and CD-quality sound, game players experience the latest in video game technology.= Following is an outline of planned Atari releases for early December 1994:
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More than 200 third-party developers have a greed to create new titles for the Atari Jaguar and a steady stream of titles are in process for= release in 1995. Other Jaguar titles expected in the first quarter include,= "Hover Strike," "Space War 2000," "Troy Aikman NFL= Football," "Rayman," "Double Dragon V," "Theme Park," "Syndicate" and "Fight for Life."
Since its release, Atari's Jaguar game system has been named the= industry's "Best New Game System" (VideoGames Magazine), "Best New Hardware System" (GameInformer) and "1993 Technical Achievement of the Year" (DieHard GameFan).
Atari markets interactive multimedia entertainment systems, including Jaguar, the world's only 64-bit system, and the only video game system manufactured in the United States. Atari is headquartered at 1196 Borregas Ave., Sunnyvale, CA 94089.
Note to editors: Jaguar is a trademark of Atari Corp. Atari is a= registered trademark of Atari Corp. Other products named may be trademarks or= registered trademarks of their owing companies.
ATARI JAGUAR ON THE LOOSE IN TIME WARNER CABLE'S FULL SERVICE NETWORK
Orlando, Fla. =97 Dec. 14, 1994 =97 Atari Corporation's Jaguar 64-bit= interactive video game system went on-line today with the initiation of Time Warner Cable's Full Service Network (FSN) in Orlando, Florida.
Atari Corporation's CEO Sam Tramiel joined Time Warner Chairman Gerald Levin at today's inauguration event in Orlando. Jaguar, the world's first and only 64-bit interactive game system features high-speed animation, textured three-dimensional color images and graphics, and CD-quality= sound.
Consumers will access the Atari games on the Full Service Network using the 64-bit Jaguar game system device, which processes more than 100 times as much data at one time than 16-bit games, and twice as much as 32-bit game systems. This significantly increases speed and lets the game player experience superior graphic performance and animation action. Through the Full Service Network, the Atari games are digitally compressed and stored on magnetic hard drives, and downloaded to the game device at the consumers' request.
"Time Warner Cable's Full Service Network is the most advanced interactive network ever built, and it gives subscribers the most advanced interactive gaming system available =97 the 64-bit Atari Jaguar," said Atari President and CEO Sam Tramiel. "Atari's Jaguar system brings the most sophisticated hardware and games to the network." Atari Jaguar Interactive Multimedia Systems are also in use at the "Home of the 21st Century," a model home equipped with Full Service Network= capabilities, and other state-of-the-art home services located in the Sweetwater, Wekiva, Lake Brantley and Springdale community near Orlando. Five 64-bit Atari Jaguar Interactive Multimedia systems are in use in the home, which is sponsored by Time Warner Cable's Full Service Network and Southern Living Magazine. "We're proud to offer consumers the Atari Jaguar system because it's the most advanced and powerful system available today," said Full Service Network President Tom Feige. "When we compared the graphics and capabilities of the game systems on the market, Atari Jaguar was the clear choice for us."
Since its release in November 1993, Atari's Jaguar system has been named the industry's "Best New Game System" by Video Games Magazine, "Best New Hardware System" by Game Informer, and "1993= Technical Achievement of the Year" by DieHard GameFan.
Time Warner Cable is the nation's second largest cable television= operator with 7.3 million customers in 34 states, and serves more than 500,000= customers in its Florida division. Time Warner Cable's Full Service Network is a digital, interactive television network which merges cable, computer and telephone technologies to provide customers greater choice, control and convenience in accessing information and services.
Atari Corporation markets interactive multimedia entertainment systems, including Jaguar, the world's only 64-bit game system, and the only video game system manufactured in the United States.
TIME WARNER INTRODUCES WORLD'S FIRST FULL SERVICE NETWORK IN ORLANDO; NETWORK OFFERS FIRST DIGITAL INTERACTIVE SERVICES= INCLUDING MOVIES ON DEMAND, HOME SHOPPING AND INTERACTIVE GAMES
ORLANDO, Fla. =97 Dec. 14, 1994 =97 Time Warner introduced the Full= Service Network(TM) (FSN) =97 the world's first digital, switched, interactive= broadband communications network delivering a range of services =97 today in= Orlando.
The company demonstrated for the first time the system's capability to deliver movies on demand, video games and home shopping services.= Attendees at the introductory event also saw a wide range of interactive services now under development by several different providers, and heard about the company's plans for further evolution of the network.
"The debut of the Full Service Network is a turning point for the communications industry," said Gerald M. Levin, chairman and CEO of Time Warner Inc. "The network's breakthrough architecture makes true video on demand a reality for the first time. With digital interactivity, consumers are in total control of the programming they bring into their homes.
"The FSN is an integral part of Time Warner's strategy for driving the growth of our copyright businesses. We are the largest creator and distributor of copyrights in the world, and as the first to deploy the FSN =97 an entirely new distribution channel =97 we can now accurately= assess the potential for such on-demand programming as movies, sports, news,= advertising, shopping, education, games, music and more. This knowledge, and having it before anyone else, will give us a competitive advantage.
"At the same time as we move ahead in Orlando, we are installing the FSN's fiber-optic backbone in our cable operations across the country. These upgrades will improve reliability and quality across the board, and enable us to offer a much wider range of programming choices. The total package will mean we can attract new customers and retain existing customers in greater numbers than ever before.
"In addition, we are already leveraging the power of the FSN's broad-brand architecture into telephony, adding another layer of revenue generation from the same basic capital expenditure.
"Over the long term, the FSN opens a whole new world of distribution opportunities for every division of Time Warner. It will challenge us to do more of what we do best: create the most innovative information and entertainment content anywhere in the world," Levin stated.
Joseph J. Collins, chairman and CEO of Time Warner Cable, added:= "The creation of the Full Service Network is a tremendous accomplishment for Time Warner Cable and its talented technology partners. Nothing of this complexity and sophistication has ever been achieved in this industry. We intend to learn from Orlando, refining the technology, pushing down its cost and determining precisely what our customers want. We will then continually fold that knowledge into the eventual roll-out of interactive television operations across the country.
"In the initial phase of the Orlando project we are offering core services =97 video on demand, home shopping and video games. With us today are representatives of nearly 20 developers of additional interactive= services which will become available to our customers. The key to today's= introduction is that we now have a superbly functioning and powerful network upon which we can build a system of services that will evolve over time, but with increasing momentum as we refine this revolutionary new= technology."
At the event, the company demonstrated the newly developed Carousel(TM) navigation system which allows customers to choose a movie or other product instantly. The on-demand technology of the network was used to call up Warner Bros.' recent hit films "The Specialist," and "The Client," and fast-forward, reverse and pause the pictures, as well as skip forward ten minutes into the movies. The video shopping mall was also demonstrated by ordering products from the Warner Bros. Studio Store and the U.S. Post Office, as was the video games venue, which was used to play a game of electronic gin with a player at another location. Atari Jaguar 64-bit games on the system were also shown. Finally, an interactive program guide from Prevue Networks, which allows viewers quickly to check program listings and push a button to select a highlighted program, was also shown.
Customers of the Full Service Network today can instantly order any of approximately 50 movie titles from an electronic video store, with= hundreds more available in the future. More than 300 items are currently available for purchase at seven stores in the video shopping mall, with many more to be added shortly. Besides Warner Bros. and the Post Office, the mall stores are Spiegel, The Nature Company, Time Warner Viewers Edge, Sharper Image, Crate and Barrel and Williams Sonoma. Customers also can receive information about Chrysler automobiles from an informational video= application.
Many future applications that will become available to customers of the Full Service Network next year were also shown for the first time. These include: educational applications such as access to a local public library; Shoppervision grocery shopping service; Sports Illustrated's sports on demand service; HBO's HBO on demand service; Time Inc.'s The News= Exchange, the world's first news on demand service; US WEST's Go TV and U S Avenue services; the Warner Magic Music Store for the purchase of recorded music; and Warner Bros.'s Omnio navigator, which also will be tested as a gateway to the network.
A broad range of companies responsible for creating the advanced, digital hardware and software for the FSN participated in the demonstration. Primary technology partners in the FSN are AT&T, Scientific-Atlanta and Silicon Graphics, Inc. AT&T Network Systems provided the high-speed ATM= (asynchronous transfer mode) switch. Scientific-Atlanta manufactured the home= communications terminal, in cooperation with Toshiba and also supplied the head-end and distribution electronics. Silicon Graphics created the FSN system software, the Carousel(TM) navigator and video-on-demand and interactive games= application. Silicon Graphics also developed graphics and computing technology for= integration into Scientific-Atlanta's home communications terminal, which is powered by MIPS(R) RISC microprocessors. Silicon Graphics' Challenge media servers were also deployed for use in the Network Operations Center. The underlying system software architecture will be used to commercially deploy= large-scale, fully integrated, interactive video server solutions by Interactive Digital Solutions, a joint venture company of Silicon Graphics and AT&T.
"The Full Service Network is the world debut of true interactive television," said Edward R. McCracken, chairman and CEO of Silicon Graphics. "The advanced technology developed by Silicon Graphics and the other FSN technology partners has created a revolutionary network= capable of delivering on the promise of the Interactive Age. We ultimately expect these powerful interactive services to be widely accessible, as set-top capabilities are integrated into low-cost MIPS media processor technology, and as Interactive Digital Solutions commercially deploys the basic FSN software architecture."
"Scientific-Atlanta's role in the Full Service Network underscores our mission as a technology enabler of multimedia applications," said James P. McDonald, president and CEO of Scientific-Atlanta. "We're extremely proud to be a partner with Time Warner in introducing the digital era of interactive broadband networks. The success of this project continues our tradition of providing leading-edge companies with the latest= communications technologies, from the satellite to the set-top."
"Right now, this technology puts us on a new electronic frontier. The technology exists. We can deliver. As this new electronic dawn breaks, we need continually to work to understand what customers value," said Dan Stanzione, president =97 Global Public Networks for AT&T Network Systems.
Other key technology providers to the Full Service Network include= Hewlett Packard (home color printer), Hitachi (multiplexer/demultiplexer), AND Communications (support to Silicon Graphics for Carousel), Ikonic= Interactive (software and user interface for The News Exchange), Medior Inc. (design and production of Warner Bros. Omnio navigator), Objective Systems= Integrators (systems monitoring), Time Warner Interactive (navigator support and= applications development expertise), Warner Bros. (Omnio navigator) and Andersen= Consulting (systems integrators).
Time Warner Inc. is the world's leading media and entertainment company, with interests in magazine and book publishing, recorded music and music publishing, filmed entertainment and theme parks and cable television and cable television programming.
Time Warner Cable is the nation's second largest cable television= operator. It presently serves 7.3 million customers in 34 states. After the closing of previously announced transactions with Advance/Newhouse and Summit= Communications, the company will serve approximately 9 million customers.
AT&T Network Systems is one of the world's largest manufacturers and providers of network communications equipment, offering communications service providers virtually everything they need to build and operate their networks. AT&T provides communications services, equipment and computer systems to consumers, businesses and communications companies around the world.
Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. is a world leader in broadband communications systems, cable television electronics, satellite-based communications= networks and instrumentation for industrial, telecommunications and government= applications.
ATARI RELEASES IRON SOLIDER
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 Dec. 22, 1994 =97 Atari Corporation today announced the release of Iron Soldier, which is available exclusively on the 64-bit Atari Jaguar Interactive Multimedia system.
Iron Soldier puts Jaguar interactive game players in control of a 42 foot tall robot fighting for the preservation of mankind's freedom against the tyrannical army of Iron Fist Enterprises. Coming to stores just in time for Christmas, Iron Soldier exploits the advanced technology available from the Atari Jaguar, the world's only 64-bit video game system, to create an immersive 3-D environment that brings new realism to game playing.
"With its detailed graphics and texture mapping, Iron Soldier= exploits the potential of the 64-bit Atari Jaguar system, " said Sam Tramiel, CEO of Atari Corporation. "Iron Soldier is an immersive, exciting game in which players can launch everything from barrel grenades to cruise missiles =97 or batter a building to pieces because sometimes it's just fun to stomp on something."
Game reviewers at DieHard GameFan enthusiastically recommend Iron Soldier in the most recent (January 1995) issue. "Iron Soldier is probably the best Jag game ever," wrote Nick Rocks. "The game play is truly addictive. Every Jag owner must buy this."
Takahara wrote: "Iron Soldier is the best game of its kind.= Realistic scaling, incredible AI (artificial intelligence), great audio and a very worthy challenge make this the best Jag game yet."
Set in the future, Iron Soldier contains sixteen separate missions to test game-playing skill. Successful completion of missions adds new weapons to the Iron Soldier's arsenal such as gattling guns, grenade launchers, rocket launchers, and cruise missiles. Players configure the Iron Soldier before each mission, choosing the best weapon for each weapon-mount on the Iron Soldier. Once the mission begins, players are presented with a stunning 3-D environment including a sprawling metropolis and surrounding landscapes.
To accomplish its mission, the Iron Soldier must navigate through the buildings, industrial sites and countryside while avoiding the lurking tanks, helicopters and other opponents determined to destroy it. Since its release in November 1993, Atari's Jaguar game system has been named the industry's "Best New Game System" (Video Games Magazine), "Best New Hardware System" (Game Informer) and "1993= Technical Achievement of the Year" (DieHard GameFan).
Atari Corporation markets interactive multimedia entertainment systems, including Jaguar, the world's only 64-bit game system, and the only video game system manufactured in the United States.
Note to editors: Jaguar is a trademark of Atari Corporation. Atari is a registered trademark of Atari Corporation. Other products named may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their owning companies.
1995
ATARI DEBUTS CD PLAYER FOR JAGUAR AT= $149.99
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 Jan. 6, 1995 =97 Prepare to shift your Jaguar into overdrive.
Atari Corporation Friday announced that its new compact disc multimedia peripheral will be available in the first quarter, priced at an amazingly affordable $149.99, including a CD game. The CD player, which plugs into the top of the 64-bit Atari Jaguar Interactive Multimedia System, plays CD-based Jaguar video games and standard audio compact discs.
The Jaguar CD player provides 790 megabytes of raw data storage to allow for the incorporation of many complex digitized images, full-motion video sequences and loads of CD-quality audio soundtracks into Jaguar games.
The powerful double speed Jaguar CD player incorporates incredibly fast access speed for smoother game play and its massive data capacity provides better graphical detail, expanded plot lines and more characters, which all add up to more immersive and challenging games. The first titles= available for the Jaguar CD player include: Battlemorph, Blue Lightning, Highlander, Demolition Man and Creature Shock, with many more to come.
Atari's new CD Multimedia player includes the Virtual Light Machine (VLM), which creates and displays light patterns on the video screen in response to music played through the system. The result is a stunning light show. There are 81 different pattern settings available on the VLM. The VLM is built into the Jaguar CD Multimedia player. "We want the Atari Jaguar to be the best value in the gaming market, as well as, the most advanced system technologically," said Sam Tramiel, CEO of Atari= Corporation.
"With the new Jaguar CD Multimedia player, Jaguar owners will be able to play incredible CD-based videogames, listen to audio discs and watch the VLM. This combination of the most advanced technology, great software and affordable pricing is what sets Jaguar apart from the= competition."
Atari Corporation markets interactive multimedia entertainment systems, including Jaguar, the world's first and only 64-bit game system, and the only video game system manufactured in the United States. Atari is= headquartered at 1196 Borregas Avenue, Sunnyvale, Calif. 94089.
ATARI JAGUAR, INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT'S BIG CAT, CAPTIVATES CONSUMERS
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 Jan. 6, 1995 =97 Atari Jaguar, the biggest cat in the interactive multimedia entertainment industry, is earning roars of approval from enthusiastic owners. Gamers laud the Jaguar-the world's first and only 64-bit interactive multimedia home entertainment system-as the "future of video gaming."
The Jaguar's high-speed animation; realistic, textured 3D graphics; CD quality sound; vivid color images; sleek, high-tech system design; and advanced controller with customizable 12-button keypad has shredded the competition and earned consumer accolades. Delighted Jaguar enthusiasts praise the Jag's feline grace as "the first of its kind."
Some samples of the Cat's fan mail, culled from letters and electronic mail received at Atari Headquarters include:
o "The future of video gaming has arrived," Jeff Kovack= proclaims. "The graphics are the hottest thing I've seen for any platform, and the gameplay is addictively intoxicating. The images on the screen are so vivid and colorful, it's nearly as much fun watching someone else play ... Hats off to our friends at Atari for creating this incredible= machine."
o "Jaguar is hot," Marty Mankins agrees.
o "It is the sleekest looking piece of entertainment hardware I have ever seen," James Thornhill Jr. declares.
o "From the esthetics of the console to the hardware, I love= it." Allen Chang writes.
o "Thank you ... Proud parent of a two pound baby Jaguar."
o "Jaguar, as a game machine with 64 bits, is in a class by itself =97 the first of its kind anywhere in the world," Evan Mullaney says. The Jag's unprecedented system performance pummels competitors. Its 64-bit architecture allows the Jag to process more than 100 times as much data at one time than 16-bit games and twice as much as 32-bit games. Delighted gamers experience the ultimate in speed, graphic performance and animation action.
o "(Jaguar) definitely beats 3DO by a mile," Nathan Wong= writes. "I've been playing with our 3DO unit for more than a month and a half and it doesn't even come close to the speed and resolution of the Jaguar. This machine is everything I thought it would be and more."
o "I've been out of the video game market since the original= Nintendo system and after hearing about the Jaguar, I bought it sight unseen," Ed Kraft explains. "Being a computer technician and operator of 486 and Pentium-based computers, I was very impressed with the specs of the Jaguar. Seeing it only added to my excitement about the system."
o "Well, I don't know how to say this, but my mother =97 who is 46 years old =97 loves the Jaguar. Now, I have to tell you, she never liked to use the ST or the TT, no matter how simple the application," writes one Jaguar enthusiast. "But with the Jaguar she's getting top scores in Crescent Galaxy and that's a big plus. Most of the time she never looked at a video game. Now she's having fun." Alien Vs. Predator and Doom Atari's white hot first-person perspective, virtual adventures, have= electrified gamers with their high-powered weapons, fast action and immersive game play.
o "Just got my Alien Vs. Predator today," says Albert Dayes. "Was it worth the wait? YES."
o "Hey, this is Doom." E-mailed Bill Glaholt. "It's the game I told myself I'd wait for to come out on the Jag before trying it on the PC. For myself, I would rate this game a 95 out of 100. It's= lightning fast and has that 'Wow' factor that =97 let's face it =97 SNES would fall= all over themselves to try to get."
o "Alien Vs. Predator showed up Friday night at our local Babbages and since we had $50 between us, we couldn't pass it up," Brian and Dan McKenzie explain. "They had about eight copies of the game-all of which had been reserved in a three or four hour period, no= less.
But somebody didn't show up to get theirs so they sold it to us. The game is great. What a huge world."
o "People were knocked flat. Their kids dragged them into the store to try it," says Dolores Lesica. "Alien vs. Predator gets a 10 from me."
o "Just wanted to write a quick note to tell you that (Atari) has produced one great game," writes Robert A. Fleming. "(In my humble opinion, Atari Vs. Predator) is one of the greatest games ever. It has been well worth the wait."
o "The game is GREAT," Ralph Barbagallo writes of Alien Vs. Predator. "It's almost like getting three games in one. ... The= graphics are fantastic and the game is very engaging."
o I just bought Doom for my Jaguar and I am very happy with it," writes Paul, a Proud Jaguar Owner. "It just blows away the Doom for the 32X. I should know. I also own the 32X."
o "I love this game." Danny Miskin says. "My younger brother says (Alien Vs. Predator) could be the best game out for any system right now." Atari Corporation markets interactive multimedia= entertainment systems, including Jaguar, the world's first and only 64-bit game system, and the only video game system manufactured in the United States. Atari is headquartered at 1196 Borregas Avenue, Sunnyvale, California 94089.
COMING ATTRACTIONS FOR ATARI= JAGUAR
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 Jan. 6, 1995 =97 Batman Forever, Thea Realm= Fighters and Primal Rage top the list of coming attractions for the 64-bit Atari Jaguar Interactive Multimedia system in 1995.
"The focus at Atari for 1995 is great software and lots of it," said Sam Tramiel, CEO of Atari Corporation. "We are working with over 200 developers to bring a wide variety of new games to the 64-bit Atari Jaguar in 1995. The powerful Jaguar technology can handle popular arcade games like Primal Rage or provide the speed and graphics necessary for brand new games like Batman Forever and Thea Realm Fighters."
Batman Forever, based on the much-anticipated Warner Bros. movie= scheduled for release this summer, pits the caped crusader and his sidekick Robin against Gotham City villains Two-Face and the Riddler. The Atari Jaguar Batman Forever game will incorporate the movie's characters and feature the films newly-designed costumes and high-tech equipment.
Market research demonstrates that over 90% of the U.S. population is familiar with the Batman character, so there will be wide appeal for the game. Batman Forever is scheduled for delivery to stores late in the 3rd quarter.
Thea Realm Fighters combines the latest digital motion capture technology and nationally known martial arts fighters, including several used for both Mortal Kombat games, to create a super-realistic fighting game. Among the well-known martial artists used for the game are:
Ho Sung Pak, who played Liu Kang in Mortal Kombat I & II, is a member of the Black Belt Hall of Fame and winner of the Grand Slam of Martial Arts in 1991, and served as technical advisor for choreography. Phillip Ahn, MD, is a 4th degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Dr. Ahn played Shang Tsung in Mortal Kombat II.Katalin Zamiar played Kitana, Mileena and Jade in Mortal Kombat II. Katalin is a black belt in Okinawan style Karate. Daniel Pesina, who played Johnny Cage and the ninjas in Mortal Kombat I & II, is a nationally ranked martial artist in forms and weapons.
There are a total of 25-plus characters to compete against in Thea Realm Fighters, including twelve main characters and twelve other special= characters. The characters can compete in four different modes and with more than 30 different backgrounds, creating a wide variety of combat situations and scenarios. The release of Thea Realm Fighters is planned for the 3rd= quarter.
Primal Rage pits seven different prehistoric creatures =97 each with its own unique fighting style =97 against each other in a battle for world= domination. This one or two player game was a huge hit in the video arcade market last year. Time Warner Interactive plans to ship a compact disc version of Primal Rage in the 4th quarter.
Atari Corporation markets interactive multimedia entertainment systems, including Jaguar, the world's first and only 64-bit game system, and the only video game system manufactured in the United States. Atari is= headquartered at 1196 Borregas Aven1ue, Sunnyvale, California 94089.
Note to editors: Batman and all related elements are property of D.C. Comics (TM) and Copyright 1994, all rights reserved. Jaguar is a trademark of Atari Corporation. Atari is a registered trademark of Atari corporation. Other products named may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their owning companies. Primal Rage (TM) and all related elements are property of Time Warner Interactive (TM).
SPORTS TITLES COMING FROM ATARI
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 Jan. 6, 1995 =97 Baseball for 1995 may be uncertain and the National Hockey League still is not playing, but there will be sports galore on the 64-bit Atari Jaguar this spring and summer. Atari Corporation today announced that a number of new sports titles will be released in the first half of 1995.
"We're going for the gold with sports-oriented games at Atari this year," said Sam Tramiel, CEO of Atari Corporation. "Atari Jaguar owners will play hockey with Brett Hull, golf with Jack Nicklaus, basketball with Charles Barkley and all the baseball they want."
Sports games currently under development include: Charles Barkley-Shut Up and Jam takes an in-your-face, over-the-top approach to America's= favorite indoor sport. Players will encounter some of the baddest b-ball players on the streets as they try to rule the game's 2 on 2 streetball tournament. Charles Barkley-Shut Up and Jam is expected by the end of the second= quarter.
Brett Hull Hockey features super-realistic, digitized graphics and a real-time 3-D hockey rink. Available on CD, Brett Hull Hockey will provide the most realistic hockey video game simulation ever. Look for Brett Hull Hockey to arrive in stores by the end of June.
Hardball Baseball will provide a graphically and statistically= true-to-life simulation of real baseball. Players will have the added option of= customizing teams and scheduling themselves for one game, a playoff series or an entire season. Special software builds players' statistics as games
New Atari Sports Titles are played making Hardball Baseball even more realistic. Atari plans to ship Hardball Baseball before the 1995 All-Star game, if there is one this year.
Jack Nicklaus Cyber Golf, a CD title, is a photo-realistic golf game for the Jaguar that utilizes over 9,000 images of Murfield Village Golf Course. This course is the first that Jack Nicklaus created and is the site of the annual Memorial Tournament. Well-known sports presenter David Livingston acts as a virtual commentator to teach the first-time player how to play the game or provide comments and suggestions for the more= experienced players. Up to a foursome can play Jack Nicklaus Cyber Golf, and the CD is expected to ship late this spring.
Additional sport titles scheduled for the first half of 1995 include Troy Aikman NFL Football (Williams Entertainment), White Men Can't Jump (TriMark), CD League Bowling (V Real) and Sensible Soccer (Telegames).
Atari Corporation markets interactive multimedia entertainment systems, including Jaguar, the world's first and only 64-bit game system, and the only video game system manufactured in the United States. Atari is= headquartered at 1196 Borregas Avenue, Sunnyvale, California 94089.
Note to editors: Jaguar is a trademark of Atari Corporation. Atari is a registered trademark of Atari corporation. Other products named may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their owning companies.
SIX OUTSTANDING NEW THIRD PARTY JAGUAR TITLES TO HIT STORE SHELVES!
SUNNYVALE, Calif. =97 Feb. 7, 1995 =97 Over the next 45 days, the first major wave of third party software for the 64-bit Atari Jaguar will be launched, marking another important step in the expansion of the Jaguar library of software. Sam Tramiel, President of Atari Corporation , stated, "We are very excited to see our third party partners coming to market with these new titles for the Jaguar platform. This is only the beginning of many great games that will be coming in the next wave of releases from our third party partners."
"Cannon Fodder," expected in stores by February 24th, leads the pack of six exciting new third-party titles to be shipped within the first quarter. For the sports enthusiasts, Telegames introduces= "International Sensible Soccer" as an interactive game version of the fastest growing commercial sport in the United States. Just following one of the most= exciting football seasons, Williams Entertainment introduces the Jaguar version of "Troy Aikman Football." Electronic Gaming Monthly says of "Troy Aikman Football," "... the Jaguar version is the best yet." Saturday morning cartoon fans will recognize the fighting lineup in eye-popping animated action with "Double Dragon V" by Williams Entertainment. For those who prefer strategic challenges with intense= graphics and hypnotic animated sequences, Ocean of America delivers two great titles, "Syndicate" and "Theme Park." In "Syndicate", you are an executive in charge of a team of mind-altered Cyborgs and= "Theme Park" enables you to engineer the ultimate amusement park.
"These new titles give the consumer a new wider range of selection on the Atari Jaguar Multimedia platform," said Mr. Tramiel. "The Jaguar now has an excellent introduction of sports, strategy and general interest software provided by some of the most respected publishers in the industry with much more to come throughout 1995."
Here is a closer look at these great new titles:
"Cannon Fodder": War has never been so much fun. The first of a new caliber of games published by Computer West, "Cannon= Fodder" is a product brought to us from the innovative people at Virgin. Command