SEGA.COM TO PROVIDE MIDDLEWARE
December 3, 2002

Sega.com announced today that they have signed middleware agreements with Sony and Nintendo for their PlayStation 2 and GameCube systems. Sega.com helps developers successfully take their games online across multiple platforms with SEGA Network Application Package (SNAP), a suite of technologies and services designed to provide a multi-platform, end-to-end, network multiplay solution.

"Having shipped more than 17 networked console games to date, SEGA is the undisputed pioneer in online console gaming, and Sega.com helped make it possible by creating and supporting the technology backbone," said Mr. Ryoichi Shiratsuchi, CEO of Sega.com and general manager, Network Business Division, SEGA Corporation. "From building the first high-speed online console gaming network to offering Nintendo GameCube and PlayStation 2 developers a solution for implementing a network gaming environment with SNAP, Sega.com is truly committed to the future of the video game industry -- online gaming."

SNAP includes community building tools and a custom network transport optimized for gameplay. SNAP also provides secure user authentication that promotes prevents fraud and facilitates revenue by connecting to billing systems. Sega.com will also provide SNAP hosting.

"Keeping in line with our open approach to the market, we welcome Sega.com's decision to offer technology and network services for online gaming," said Andrew House, executive vice president, Sony Computer Entertainment America. "As one of the core benefits of the PlayStation 2 online model is to allow companies to take advantage of existing knowledge, investment and efficiencies, Sega.com will be able to help accelerate online game development with the release of its middleware solution, SNAP."

"Offering a flexible and reliable network solution, SNAP allows our developers to focus on creating great games without worrying about the challenges of implementing and maintaining a network gaming environment," said Jim Merrick, director, Network Marketing, Nintendo of America.