MICROSOFT TO ACQUIRE ENSEMBLE
May 3, 2001

Microsoft has reached an agreement to acquire Ensemble Studios, the developer responsible for the Microsoft Age of Empires franchise. Under the terms of the agreement, Ensemble will continue to create titles from its Dallas headquarters as part of Microsoft's growing pool of development talent.

Microsoft and Ensemble Studios have worked closely during the past six years to develop the Age of Empires franchise for the PC. To date, the series has sold approximately 8.5 million licensed units worldwide.

"We are thrilled to bring Ensemble Studios under the Microsoft banner," said Stuart Moulder, general manager of the Games Division at Microsoft. "The depth of talent and the leadership of Tony Goodman is a winning combination, and this acquisition will help strengthen our mutual commitment to remaining a PC games industry leader."

"This announcement today is a natural evolution from the relationship we've had with Microsoft,'' said Tony Goodman, president and CEO of Ensemble Studios.