MICROSOFT GETS ODD
October 23, 2000

Microsoft has signed a deal with Infogrames to obtain the exclusive worldwide publishing and distribution rights to the Oddworld game series, created by Oddworld Inhabitants. Beginning with Munch's Oddysee, which will be available next fall only on Xbox, Microsoft will exclusively publish the next four installments in the Oddworld Quintology for Xbox.

"The opportunity to bring the full force of our publishing and marketing resources to bear on such a popular game series as 'Oddworld' is a major coup," said Ed Fries, vice president of games publishing at Microsoft. "This maps perfectly to our longstanding strategy of working with the world's best game designers to create experiences that will excite the imaginations of gamers everywhere."

According to Lorne Lanning, president and co-founder of Oddworld Inhabitants, the choice of the Xbox platform was an easy one. "Our goal with 'Munch's Oddysee' and future installments in the 'Quintology' has always been to create an immersive experience that pushes the boundaries of reality. Only Xbox gives us the graphical muscle and intense digital sound to unleash our creative juices and allow us to bring the imaginary world and rich characters of Oddworld to life."

The Oddworld series was originally published by Infogrames. According to Yves Blehaut, senior vice president of Infogrames, allowing Microsoft to exclusively publish the next titles in the Oddworld series will further strengthen its worldwide popularity.

"The 'Oddworld' franchise lends itself to cutting-edge technology such as that provided by the Xbox system. We feel Microsoft's marketing plans for the Xbox launch coupled with its first-party publishing support will provide tremendous value for 'Munch's Oddysee'," Blehaut said.

"Teaming up with Microsoft also gives the opportunity to combine the talents of two great companies," Lanning said. "We were impressed with Microsoft's marketing and distribution muscle, but what really won us over was its commitment to and vision for producing the best games."