June 22^nd, 2002 (12:00am) - Microsoft Game Studios and Ensemble Studios today announced that the Age of Mythology 10,000-player online multiplayer test will begin in early July, and sign-up forms are now online. Gamers are are encouraged to sign up no later than Sunday, June 30 for a chance to be among the first to experience this highly anticipated real-time strategy game. This limited alpha version of Age of Mythology will contain two of the nine civilizations that will be available when the game is released this October. Up to four players will be able to compete head-to-head as a follower of either Zeus or Poseidon on one of two multiplayer maps.

For more information and to sign up, please visit the official Age of Mythology site at http://www.microsoft.com/games/ageofmythology/, or the Ensemble Studios site at http://www.ensemblestudios.com/aom/index.html.

Using familiar elements of classical mythology, Age of Mythology casts players as one of nine unique civilizations from ancient Greek, Norse and Egyptian mythologies. Players can reinforce their armies with mythological creatures like Cyclopes and Minotaurs or call upon the mighty powers of gods such as Zeus to rain down lightning bolts on unsuspecting enemies. Age of Mythology also incorporates Ensemble Studios’ trademark features from previous Age of Empires games, including a compelling economic model, a massive army and battle system, unequaled artificial intelligence, random maps, intuitive gameplay and extreme attention to detail.

Age of Mythology’s 3-D engine delivers impressive graphics in a fully 3-D environment, including beautiful waves and water, lifelike rolling terrain, realistic sunlight, and lush forests. In-game cinematics create a seamless, story-based and character-driven campaign which features 36 scenarios. In addition, the game features incredible special effects with astonishing levels of detail, including waterspouts, infernos, snowstorms, tornadoes and earthquakes. Age of Mythology will be available this fall for an estimated retail price of $49.99 (U.S.).

Age of Mythology is a branch of the popular Age of Empires franchise that has sold more than 10 million licensed units worldwide. More information about Age of Mythology is available at http://www.microsoft.com/games/ageofmythology/, or on the Ensemble Studios site at http://www.ensemblestudios.com/aom/index.html.