Gathering of Developers and Triumph Studios Announce Age of Wonders II: The Wizard?s Throne Triumph Studios to Develop the Second Chapter of Award-Winning Turn-Based Strategy/Role-Playing Game Dallas, TX, January 26, 2001 - Developer-driven computer and video game publisher Gathering of Developers, a subsidiary of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ-TTWO), today announced that it will publish Age of Wonders II: The Wizard's Throne for the PC. The sequel to the 1999 award-winning turn-based strategy game Age of Wonders, Age of Wonders II: The Wizard's Throne features multi-layered role-playing and strategy excitement along with elements of empire building and war gaming. Players will be able to go head-to-head or play against Artificial Intelligence (AI) opponents in hot seat, LAN, Internet or play-by-email modes in an enhanced simultaneous turn-based system. Created by Triumph Studios, with development consultation from PopTop Software, Age of Wonders II: The Wizard's Throne will be distributed by Take-Two Interactive's Jack of all Games in early 2002. "Triumph Studios? Age of Wonders won the respect and admiration of reviewers and enthusiasts in the gaming world for its original and in-depth gameplay," said Mike Wilson, CEO of Gathering of Developers. "With PopTop Software, creators of the award winning series Railroad Tycoon II, as consultants on the game, Age of Wonders II: The Wizards Throne should be another winner." Age of Wonders II: The Wizard's Throne blends role-playing, melee and magical combat, and building, while placing the player in control of an ancient fantasy empire. To restore balance in a world on the brink of collapse and earn a place amongst The Circle of Evermore (a group of immortal wizards,) gamers take charge of power-wielding wizards, clashing battalions and laboring guilds. As the story unfolds, players will encounter deities, other wizards, enemies and allies, each with their own agenda and personality. The alliances made or broken with each unique character in the game will make the difference between ultimate success or utter demise. By wisely choosing alliances, utilizing good research in the magical arts, and building forces and resources, players can dominate the land and ultimately restore order. Age of Wonders II: The Wizard's Throne provides an easily mastered method for players to control and govern all aspects of the empire in a simple-to-manage game system. From building structures and strengthening armies to researching powerful magic spells and making or breaking alliances with rival wizards, gamers can enjoy a fast-paced game without micro-managing. An enhanced simultaneous turn-based system keeps the action going. The Direct3D enhanced graphics engine beautifully renders the elevated landscapes, allowing players to explore rich immersive environments. In addition, Age of Wonders II: The Wizard's Throne offers great replay value through it?s scenario editor and random scenario generator. Age of Wonders received industry accolades from the consumer and gaming press alike. Triumph Studios' original game was named "Game of the Year" by Gone Gold.com, awarded "Editor?s Choice" by PC Gamer Magazine, given a perfect 4/4 "Direct Hit" rating from Daily Radar, and scored a perfect 5/5 rating from Next Gen Magazine.