June 28^th, 2005 (9:42am) - taten Island, NY, June 28th, 2005 - Matrix Games (www.matrixgames.com) and Slitherine Strategies (www.slitherine.co.uk) are pleased to announce that Spartan, the classic empire-building and ancient battles game, is now available for purchase as a digital download from the Matrix Games website.

Previously available only as a boxed game, Spartan debuts in the Matrix Games online store for $19.99 as a downloadable title. With both Spartan and Gates of Troy now available via download, gamers have a new and very affordable way to own this duo of ancient gaming goodness. Gates of Troy is 100% backwards compatible with the Spartan campaigns and scenarios, giving you the ability to use both to create a single epic story.

Spartan features immersive turn-based strategy where economy, civilization, diplomacy and espionage are weapons as powerful as swords and shields. You build your empire as you see fit, selecting the resources to mine, the knowledge to research, and the enemies to conquer. Build walls, siege castles, sabotage your enemies, and unite Greece to defeat the advancing Persian horde.

Spartan allows you to lead the nation of Sparta to victory in some of the ancient world’s greatest battles. See the military strength and of a small nation grow and flourish as you battle to unite Greece. Control a vast empire and build wonders such as the Acropolis, the Oracle, and The Colossus. Best of all it is 100% compatible with its sequel, Gates of Troy allowing you to combine these two games into one. The Persians are coming. Will Sparta be ready?

For more information, check the main Matrix Games page at www.matrixgames.com for future press releases and discussions.