Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) and Evolution Studios Sign Exclusive Development and Publishing Agreement 16th August 2004 – Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) and Evolution Studios are delighted to announce the signing of a deal that will see Evolution, creator of the multi-million selling World Rally Championship (WRC) series for PlayStation®2, develop games exclusively for SCEE and Sony platforms. One of Europe's leading development companies, Evolution has an October release scheduled for the fourth title in the WRC series. Exclusive to PlayStation 2, WRC 4TM: The Official Game of the FIA World Rally Championship boasts an all new handling model as well as a fantastic 1-16 player, on-line mode. Initial feedback from over 7,000 beta testers suggests WRC 4 is one of the hottest and best handling rally games in the market. Evolution also has a visionary satellite studio, bigBig, who are currently working on a highly anticipated original title for PSP. The exclusivity deal will see the Rally franchise continue alongside creation of new and original games titles. Phil Harrison, SCEE Executive Vice President Development, commented, "Once again, SCEE cements an exclusive relationship with one of the world's greatest developers." He continued, "We've enjoyed an unparalleled working relationship with Evolution Studios over the past 4 years and the quality of their work on the WRC franchise can be measured by the millions of loyal fans who love the series. This strategic alliance allows our organisations to work even more closely together as we prepare for the combined challenges of new formats and expanded game design horizons." Under the terms of the deal, Evolution will not only continue to work on WRC for the PlayStation 2, but will apply their knowledge and expertise to begin development on future Sony platforms. Martin Kenwright, Managing Director of Evolution said, "We've enjoyed a fantastic working relationship with SCEE throughout the development of the WRC franchise and are extremely pleased to be extending this partnership. We are looking forward to working exclusively with SCEE, applying our talent, vision and technology to new products and platforms. We are confident this will cement Evolution's position as one of the world's finest development studios." WRC4 will launch in Europe at the end of October this year. About Sony Computer Entertainment Europe as at 9 May 04 Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, based in London, is responsible for the distribution, marketing and sales of PS one and PlayStation 2 hardware and software in 102 territories across Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Oceania. By the end of March 2004, over 39.5 million PlayStation and PS one units had been shipped across these PAL territories and over 99 million worldwide. Between its European debut on 24 November 2000 and the end of March 2004, over 24.5 million PlayStation 2 units have been shipped across the PAL territories, over 71 million world-wide, making it one of the most successful computer entertainment products in history. PlayStation and the PlayStation logo, PS one and PS2 are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.