To: BZOOKA who wrote (12318 ) 9/22/1998 8:45:00 PM From: BZOOKA Read Replies (1) | Respond to of 13925
3Dfx Product Sales Challenge Those of Major Console Vendors at Electronics Boutique Electronics Boutique Becomes Leading Online Retailer of 3Dfx Products SAN JOSE, Calif., Sept. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- 3Dfx Interactive(R) Inc. (Nasdaq: TDFX - news) announced today that sales of hardware and games optimized for 3Dfx are approaching that of major console vendors at Electronics Boutique (EB), the largest mall-based retailer of computer software and interactive games. ''We were the first retailer to recognize 3Dfx as a true PC-entertainment platform, worthy of special online and in-store sections,'' said Jerry Madaio, vice president of merchandising-PC division for Electronics Boutique. ''In fact, we have seen 3Dfx sales increase to the point where they are in the same league as the major console vendors, like Sony Playstation and Nintendo 64.'' EB first instituted 3Dfx-specific sections in its stores as early as nine months ago and later added a special section to EB World, its website, to spotlight 3Dfx merchandise online. EB World, the first sanctioned online store selling 3Dfx-compatible products, has successfully passed its six month marker as the leading online retailer of 3Dfx hardware and games specifically optimized for 3Dfx. With 3Dfx featured prominently on the front page, EB World has since become one of the leading revenue-producing outlets for EB. ''Part of our overall retail success can be attributed to specific 3Dfx sections, like those at Electronics Boutique -- both online and in-store,'' said Darlene Kindler, vice president of developer relations for 3Dfx Interactive. ''EB was the first to spotlight 3Dfx with special online and in-store sections and has certainly been a pioneer in the retail community dedicated to the PC-entertainment platform.'' EB continues to revamp both its online and in-store sections and most recently redesigned its online site, which significantly boosted sales. Additionally, EB plans to use a continuous-loop video as an in-store tool to showcase soon-to-be released, top titles optimized for 3Dfx hardware. This holiday season, EB will also feature the latest addition to the Voodoo family of products -- Voodoo Banshee. Shortly, consumers will be able to purchase Diamond Multimedia, Creative Labs and Quantum3D cards, powered by Voodoo Banshee at retail. This fully integrated 2D and 3D graphics accelerator, offers the highest levels of game play and the greatest visual experience. Consumers can shop online by accessing the 3Dfx web site at www.3dfx.com, which links directly to EB World or travel directly to the online retail outlet at www.ebworld.com. About Electronics Boutique With over 600 stores located in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Puerto Rico, South Korea and Ireland, Electronics Boutique is the world's largest mall-based retailer of computer software and interactive video games. Based in West Chester, PA, Electronics Boutique store inventory includes a large selection of Windows-based CD-ROM entertainment, business and education software and peripherals for home use. Also included in the mix are the latest video game systems, software and accessories for the Nintendo 64, Sony PlayStation, Sega Saturn and other popular video game systems. Electronics Boutique completed an initial public offering in August 1998 and now trades on Nasdaq under the symbol ELBO. About 3Dfx Interactive 3Dfx Interactive develops high-performance, cost-effective 3D media processors, software and related technology that are designed to enable a highly immersive, interactive and realistic 3D experience across interactive electronic entertainment platforms -- personal computers, coin-operated arcade system and location-based entertainment. Current 3Dfx Interactive products include the Voodoo(TM) family of accelerator chipsets, Voodoo 2(TM), Voodoo Graphics(R) and Voodoo Banshee(R). Visit the company on the Web at 3dfx.com