The Ultimate Space Adventure Begins As PC Game "Freelancer" Hits Store Shelves

New Microsoft Game Studios Release Delivers Endless Space Action

REDMOND, Wash. - March 4, 2003 - Prepare to unlock a universe of possibilities as "Freelancer™," the latest PC game from Microsoft Corp., lands on store shelves today. With "Freelancer," players can embark on an epic space adventure that puts them in the space pilot's seat as never before. "Freelancer," developed by Digital Anvil and Microsoft Game Studios, enables gamers to experience the adrenaline rush of fast-action combat with the engrossing story of a dynamic living universe. Players assume the identities of a variety of characters - from crafty traders and naval officers to galactic explorers and bounty hunters - and those identities determine which allies and enemies players will encounter in the game.

Players also can join friends in cooperative missions via multiplayer gameplay and experience a world that changes around them based on the reputations they establish. One of the most highly anticipated titles of 2003, "Freelancer" features easy-to-use keyboard and mouse controls, eye-popping graphics and an incredibly huge universe that players can explore for hours on end.

"'Freelancer' offers the freedom for players to make their own stories," said Phil Wattenbarger, project lead for Microsoft's Digital Anvil studio. "We want players to feel like they are in a real place, where what they do and who they talk to leads to an experience that's uniquely their own." "Freelancer" features the voice talents of such actors as George Takei ("Star Trek"), as conflicted Lord Hakkera; Xander Berkeley ("24"), as rough-edged pilot Dexter; Ian Ziering ("Beverly Hills 90210"), as hero Edison Trent; and Michael T. Weiss ("The Pretender"), as Orillion, the mysterious leader of The Order. Boasting hundreds of unique personalities throughout its universe, "Freelancer" offers countless possibilities for social interaction with distinctive and engaging characters.

"Anticipation for 'Freelancer' is high, which is in part due to the unique way people can experience the game, either by following a narrative line or by exploring this massive, open-ended universe," said Stuart Moulder, general manager for PC games at Microsoft Game Studios. "'Freelancer' gives PC gamers complete freedom to experience the game in their own way and at their own pace. It is this creative freedom that players crave and something that will set the stage for future PC games development."