REDMOND, Wash. - April 25, 2003 - Microsoft Game Studios today announced the in-house development of "Mythica," a revolutionary online PC game that uses new Private Realms Technology to merge the depth and sophistication of a single-player game with the social experience of a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG). "Mythica" is scheduled to arrive on store shelves in 2004.

"Mythica" places gamers in the role of a fallen hero who has ascended to the afterlife as an immortal seeking to achieve godhood in the Norse realms. Utilizing innovative Private Realms Technology, players enjoy grand adventures, handcrafted for one-of-a-kind gaming experiences based on their actions, strategies and whims.

"When playing 'Mythica,' players will feel like genuine Norse heroes on a personalized journey unique to them," said Adam Waalkes, studio manager for role-playing games at Microsoft Corp. "Through 'Mythica,' Microsoft Game Studios will revitalize the massively multiplayer genre by putting the focus where it belongs: on gameplay."

In the quest to become the one true hero in a vast gaming world, players may adventure with a band of fellow immortals into huge, populated public spaces or enter a Private Realm. "Mythica's" Private Realms Technology envelopes players in story lines and environments that react to their actions in private areas of the world. Here players become the central characters in a heroic tale where actions have lasting consequences in their own persistent game world.

The Private Realms are spread across several traditional planes of existence from Norse mythology, from the grassy fields and eternal spring of Asgard to the fiery heart of Muspellheim. Using godlike powers, players can dispel droves of menacing monsters with a single blow or battle massive, monstrous beasts such as the Midgard Serpent.

"'Mythica' is a delicate balance between a massively multiplayer game with mechanics, depth and socialization expected by veteran online gamers, as well as the intimacy and self-determination of a single-player adventure," said Matt Wilson, executive producer. "In our game, players truly feel like they're center stage in their own adventure."