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Technology Stocks : THQ,Inc. (THQI) -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?


To: Todd DeMelle who wrote (10779)5/13/1999 9:07:00 AM
From: EbolaMan  Respond to of 14266
 
NEWS 2of6

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 13, 1999--THQ Inc.
(Nasdaq/NM:THQI.O) Thursday announced that, in collaboration with Disney
Interactive Inc., it will publish and distribute Disney/Pixar's "Toy
Story 2" for Nintendo Game Boy Color.
Disney/Pixar's "Toy Story 2" for Game Boy Color is scheduled to
launch in North America in winter 1999, in time for the release of the
computer-generated animated feature film.
"The original Disney/Pixar's 'Toy Story' for the Game Boy system
enjoyed tremendous success among Game Boy fans as well as fans of the
blockbuster animated feature film," stated Joe Adney, vice president
of marketing, THQ. "Bringing this highly recognizable sequel to the
all-new Game Boy Color system promises a more-engaging gaming
experience."
This exciting adventure, including Woody and Buzz Lightyear, is
based on Disney/Pixar's upcoming computer-generated animated feature
film, "Toy Story 2." Filled with eight enchanting levels, enthusiasts
play Buzz Lightyear and must save Woody from Al - the Toy Collector.
To do this, players must meet menacing challenges such as
successfully crossing Andy's room amidst a toy battle while utilizing
a race car track to catapult himself across the room, or a model
airplane suspended from the ceiling to fly across the room.
Other perils that players encounter along the way include
battling the evil Emperor Zurg and his patrolling minions while
searching Al's Toy Barn for Woody, or coming face-to-face with the
Round-Up Gang in their attempt to free Woody from Al's display
cabinet. Developed by Tiertex, Disney/Pixar's "Toy Story 2" for Game
Boy Color captures the spirit of Disney/Pixar's "Toy Story 2" world in
full, rich color.
Disney Interactive, a subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company,
develops, markets and globally distributes a wide variety of
interactive family-oriented entertainment and educational CD-ROMs and
video games. For more information on Disney Interactive's products,
visit www.disneyinteractive.com, part of the GO Network.
THQ Inc. develops, publishes and distributes interactive
entertainment software worldwide for a variety of hardware platforms
including PC CD-ROM, and those manufactured by Nintendo and Sony. The
THQ Web site is located at www.thq.com.

The statements contained in this release that are not historical
facts may be deemed to constitute forward-looking statements. Actual
results may differ materially from those projected in such statements
due to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, without
limitation, demand and competition for the company's products, and
other risks and uncertainties detailed in the company's filings with
the Securities and Exchange Commission.




To: Todd DeMelle who wrote (10779)5/13/1999 9:09:00 AM
From: EbolaMan  Read Replies (1) | Respond to of 14266
 
NEWS 3of6

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 13, 1999--Dirt-bike racers
better strap their helmets on tight because top game publisher THQ
Inc. (Nasdaq/NM:THQI.O) and two-time AMA National Motocross Champion
Ricky Carmichael have teamed up to bring all the grit and intensity of
motocross racing to the most popular game systems.
THQ has acquired the exclusive rights to motocross star
Carmichael for use in its upcoming, multi-platform motocross series.
The exclusive five-year agreement also includes licensing support from
Oakley, Bell Helmets, Fox Racing and Alpinestars. Developed by Funcom,
"Championship Motocross(tm) featuring Ricky Carmichael" for
PlayStation will be the first title in THQ's motocross series and is
scheduled for worldwide release in summer 1999.
In 1998, Carmichael was the first rider in history to win every
race in the 125cc Supercross Series, winning the Eastern Regional
title and the East-West Shoot-Out in Las Vegas. Since turning
professional in 1996, he also has two AMA National Championships to
his credit. Carmichael has dominated the 125cc class like no other
rider in the history of the sport.
"As one of the best-known racers in motocross, Ricky Carmichael's
endorsement is extremely valuable to hardcore racing fans," said Brian
Farrell, president and CEO, THQ. "Coupling his notoriety within this
sport with Funcom's motorcycle racing game positions THQ very well for
the launch of our motocross series this summer."
"Racing and winning as a professional has brought many new
challenges and opportunities to me," said Carmichael. "Becoming
involved in the design and endorsement of THQ's motocross racing games
means long-time fans will finally be able to feel what it's like to
race with the pros."
"The game achieves the raw essence of motocross racing by
capturing the dynamics, sheer power and excitement of the event,"
stated Martha McGowan, managing director of Funcom. "The Ricky
Carmichael endorsement, associated brands and THQ's unparalleled
publishing success make them the perfect partner to bring this
revolutionary racing game to market."
"Championship Motocross featuring Ricky Carmichael" gives racers
the opportunity to compete as AMA National Motocross Champion Ricky
Carmichael. Players will enjoy superb graphics and visual effects like
flying dirt, exhaust smoke and real-time track and biker lighting as
they maneuver through 12 unique tracks from around the world.
Funcom's proprietary "RMD" (Real Motocross Dynamics) bike physics
system is the first to deliver realistic and responsive rider dynamics
both on the ground and in the air.
Funcom is an independent game developer based in Norway and
Ireland. Founded in 1993, the company has grown considerably and
counts 120 full-time employees in 1999. Funcom has previously
developed games like "Impact Racing" for JVC, "Pocahontas" for Disney,
"NBA Hangtime" for Midway and "Casper" for Interplay.
Having sold more than 1.5 million copies of its games, the
company now focuses its resources on three areas: PC, Sony PlayStation
and online games. Try Funcom's games at www.funcom.com.
THQ Inc. develops, publishes and distributes interactive
entertainment software worldwide for a variety of hardware platforms
including PC CD-ROM, and those manufactured by Nintendo and Sony. The
THQ Web site is located at www.thq.com.

The statements contained in this release that are not historical
facts may be deemed to constitute forward-looking statements. Actual
results may differ materially from those projected in such statements
due to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, without
limitation, demand and competition for the company's products, and
other risks and uncertainties detailed in the company's filings with
the Securities and Exchange Commission.




To: Todd DeMelle who wrote (10779)5/13/1999 9:12:00 AM
From: EbolaMan  Respond to of 14266
 
NEWS 4of6

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 13, 1999--THQ Inc.
(Nasdaq/NM:THQI.O) Thursday announced that it will bring its critically
acclaimed PlayStation title, "Brunswick(r) Circuit Pro Bowling(tm),"
to the Nintendo 64 game console.
"Brunswick Circuit Pro Bowling" for the N64 is being developed by
Point of View Inc. and is scheduled for worldwide release in fall
1999.
"Brunswick Circuit Pro Bowling" features the best-known license
in the sport, including all of its personalities, tournaments and
state-of-the-art equipment. This true 3-D simulation utilizes the
most-advanced physics engine available for unsurpassed realism in ball
and pin action. Modes of play will include the ever-popular "Cosmic
Bowling(tm)," "Brunswick Bowling Skins Game(tm)" and
"Create-A-Bowler."
"Point of View and THQ are joining forces to deliver the most
realistic and fun bowling game," said Mike Rubinelli, vice president
of development, THQ. "Combining Point of View's development expertise
with our proven success in marketing and distributing games is sure to
yield another fantastic ten-pin experience."
Chris Warner, president of Point of View, stated, "We look
forward to our relationship with THQ not only because we will be able
to bring the most-popular license in bowling to the N64, but because
of THQ's history of responding successfully to an increasingly
demanding marketplace."
THQ's "Brunswick Circuit Pro Bowling 2" for PC and PlayStation
are scheduled for worldwide release in the first half of 2000.
Brunswick Indoor Recreation Group (www.brunswickbowling.com), a
division of Brunswick Corp., is the world's largest manufacturer and
marketer of bowling products and one of the largest owner/operators of
bowling centers worldwide. With headquarters in Lake Forest, Ill.,
Brunswick is a multinational company serving the outdoor and indoor
active recreation markets with leading branded consumer products in
fishing, camping, biking, bowling, billiards, exercise equipment and
pleasure boating.
Point of View is a leading developer of games for the Sony
PlayStation, PC and Nintendo 64. Since February 1996, Point of View
has developed more than 10 titles, including "NFL Blitz," "Mortal
Kombat Trilogy" and "Sports Car GT." Point of View was founded by
three industry-seasoned principals -- Chris Warner as president, Mark
Nausha as vice president of product development, and Mike Terlecki as
vice president of technology.
Point of View, which currently employs 31 individuals, has
offices located in Covina, Calif., and Lake Tahoe, Nev. While
attracting and maintaining the most talented group of professionals
and partnering with the most influential publishers in the computer
game industry, Point of View has gained a reputation for delivering
high-quality games on time and within budget.
Point of View's Web site is www.pov-inc.com.
THQ Inc. is a leading developer, publisher and distributor of
interactive entertainment software worldwide for a variety of hardware
platforms including PC CD-ROM, and those manufactured by Nintendo and
Sony. The THQ Web site is located at www.thq.com.

The statements contained in this release that are not historical
facts may be deemed to constitute forward-looking statements. Actual
results may differ materially from those projected in such statements
due to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, without
limitation, demand and competition for the company's products, and
other risks and uncertainties detailed in the company's filings with
the Securities and Exchange Commission.




To: Todd DeMelle who wrote (10779)5/13/1999 9:14:00 AM
From: EbolaMan  Respond to of 14266
 
NEWS 5of6

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 13, 1999--Electronic
Entertainment Expo - THQ Inc. (NASDAQ NMS: THQI.O) and JAKKS Pacific,
Inc. (NASDAQ NMS: JAKK.O) have signed the top wrestling development
teams in the industry for development of their multi-platform World
Wrestling Federation series. THQ and JAKKS Pacific's development
giants include AKI Corporation in conjunction with Asmik Ace
Entertainment Inc., award-winning developer of "World Tour" and
"Revenge," and Yuke's Co., Ltd., makers of the world renown "Toukon
Retsuden." The first title in the series is scheduled for release for
Nintendo 64 winter 1999.
"THQ is the premier publisher of wrestling games," said Michael
Haller, senior vice president, THQ. "With the number one license in
wrestling, unrivaled wrestling development talent and our proven
publishing expertise, THQ is poised to maintain its lead in this
highly competitive genre."
"The World Wrestling Federation is the hottest name in the game
and toy industry," said Stephen Berman, President and COO of JAKKS
Pacific, Inc. "Coupling WWF's notoriety with the talented development
teams at AKI and Yuke's means a premium cyber-wrestling experience for
the millions of gaming and wrestling enthusiasts."
The first three releases in THQ and JAKKS Pacific's WWF series
are scheduled for release on the Nintendo 64, PlayStation and Game Boy
Color platforms. The WWF Nintendo 64 title is being developed by AKI
Corporation, the creator of "World Tour," winner of the first-ever
Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences' Interactive Achievement
Award for Best Console Fighting Game, and "Revenge," recently
nominated for the second annual Interactive Achievement Award for Best
Console Fighting Game. "Revenge" was also the number one selling
third-party Nintendo 64 game for 1998 according to NPD Group.
THQ and JAKKS Pacific's WWF PlayStation title is scheduled for
release spring 2000, in conjunction with WrestleMania 2000. The title
is being developed by Yuke's Co., Ltd., creators of the top-selling,
next-generation wrestling series in Japan, "Toukon Retsuden." The WWF
Game Boy Color title which is scheduled for release winter 1999 is
being developed for THQ and JAKKS Pacific by Natsume.

JAKKS Pacific, Inc. and its affiliates develop, manufacture and
market toys and related products for children, including action
figures featuring characters from the World Wrestling Federation,
die-cast collectible and toy vehicles under the Road Champs and
Remco(R) brand names, Child Guidance(R) pre-school toys and a line of
fashion dolls and accessories.

Titan Sports, Inc., the parent company of the World Wrestling
Federation (WWF), is a privately owned marketing and communications
company with its corporate offices located at its world headquarters
in Stamford, Connecticut. The WWF's goal has always been to provide
quality family entertainment both live in arenas and on television
around the world. Under the guidance and creative force of Vince
McMahon, Titan's chairman, the WWF has grown from a northeastern
regional business to an international television and marketing
enterprise. The business structure in place to create, market and
manage this global WWF sports-entertainment property consists of both
national and international sales, marketing, promotions, television
distribution, properties (domestic and international), publishing,
pay-per-view and public relations, making the WWF the leader in
sports-entertainment for over 50 years.

THQ Inc. develops, publishes and distributes interactive
entertainment software worldwide for a variety of hardware platforms
including PC CD-ROM, and those manufactured by Nintendo and Sony. The
THQ Web site is located at www.thq.com.




To: Todd DeMelle who wrote (10779)5/13/1999 9:17:00 AM
From: EbolaMan  Read Replies (1) | Respond to of 14266
 
NEWS 6of6

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 13, 1999--At the largest
electronic entertainment software show in the world, game publisher
THQ Inc. (NASDAQ 1/4NMS:THQI.O) is set to show the world its line-up of
games that cater to every level of player.
From young children to hardcore gamers, THQ is delivering
innovative interactive experiences in every major category on every
game platform. The company's ensemble of sports, action and children's
software for the PC, Nintendo 64, PlayStation and Game Boy Color
systems will be demonstrated for media and retailers at the Los
Angeles Convention Center's West Hall in suites 506 and 507 and in
booth 2608.
"THQ has experienced phenomenal growth over the past four years
driven by an ability to deliver compelling entertainment experiences
for game players of all abilities," stated Brian J. Farrell, president
and chief executive officer of THQ. "This year is no exception as we
introduce huge additions to our multi-platform mass-market franchises
including the first of our motocross series, featuring motocross
phenomenon Ricky Carmichael, the first of our new World Wrestling
Federation(TM) line and new products in our B.A.S.S. fishing and
Brunswick bowling lines. We've broadened our action category with
intense motorcycle action in 'Road Rash(TM) 64' and expanded our
presence in the children's category with 'Disney/Pixar's Toy Story 2'
for Game Boy Color and three new Rugrats(TM) games for the Nintendo
64, PlayStation and Game Boy Color."

Nintendo 64 titles THQ will be showcasing at E3:
*T
-- "Bassmasters(R) 2000" (Working Title) -- Premiere B.A.S.S.
fishing is coming to the N64 featuring real B.A.S.S. anglers and
tournaments on beautiful 3D lakes straight from the BASSMASTER
Tournament Trial, including THQ's signature underwater views and
unsurpassed realism in environments and fish behavior.
(Scheduled for launch Winter 1999)

-- "Brunswick(R) Circuit Pro Bowling(TM)" -- The number one bowling
franchise and best bowling simulation on the PlayStation is
coming to the N64, including state-of-the-art ball and pin
physics; popular modes like Cosmic Bowling(TM) and
Create-A-Bowler; and authentic bowling styles of the Brunswick
pros. (Scheduled for launch Winter 1999)

-- "Nuclear Strike(TM) 64" -- For the first time ever, the famous
"Strike" series is making its debut on the N64 where players will
command the Strike team in their quest to defeat nuclear
terrorism in land and air battles covering the tropical islands
of the South Sea and interior Asia. (Scheduled for launch Winter
2000)

-- "Road Rash(TM) 64" -- Road Rash action reaches new heights with
screaming four-player motorcycle action, including new race types
like Team-Race and Pursuit and more weapons and characters than
ever before.
(Scheduled for launch Fall 1999)

-- "Rugrats(TM): Scavenger Hunt" -- Kids of all ages can play as
their favorite babies from Nickelodeon's Emmy award winning
"Rugrats" animated series in one of the first 3D interactive
board games for the N64.
(Scheduled for launch June 1999)

-- "WWF(TM)" (Working Title)-- This trip into the squared circle
unites the world's most popular wrestlers, the top-rated show in
cable television, Monday Night Raw, and the premier publisher of
wrestling video games, THQ, for the ultimate wrestling
experience. (Scheduled for launch Winter 1999)

PlayStation titles THQ will be showcasing at E3:

-- "Bass Masters Classic(R): Championship Edition(TM)" -- Experience
unsurpassed fishing realism as THQ's authentic B.A.S.S. series
moves to the PlayStation with exciting new features like real
B.A.S.S. tournaments, a frenetic arcade mode and analog dual
shock support. (Scheduled for launch Winter 1999)

-- "Brunswick(R) Circuit Pro Bowling(TM) 2" -- Enhanced graphics,
refined physics, improved interfaces, eight player multi-player
support and updated Brunswick Pro staff and equipment are just a
few of the elements that make this sequel the most realistic
bowling sim ever. (Scheduled for launch Fall 1999)

-- "Danger Girl(TM)" -- Based on the hugely successful DC Comics
comic book series, Danger Girl takes players inside the bold
exploits of an elite team of three curvaceous female spies as
they infiltrate and explore vast environs from the Swiss Alps to
a jungle island. (Scheduled for launch Winter 1999)

-- "Knights of Carnage(TM)" -- A king's daughter and her trusty
man-at-arms must hack, slash and skewer warlords, demons,
warlocks and every other creature that crosses their path in
their attempt to save their land from evil. (Scheduled for launch
Summer 1999)

-- "Championship Motocross(TM) featuring Ricky Carmichael" -- Hit
the track running in the definitive adrenaline pumpin',
power-slidin', seat-of-the-pants dirt bike racing experience
featuring a proprietary "RMD" (Real Motocross Dynamics) bike
physics engine for the ultimate in realistic bike control.
(Scheduled for launch Fall 1999)

-- "Rugrats(TM): Studio Tour" (Working Title) -- An all-new,
non-linear, third person, action adventure game where Tommy,
Chuckie, Phil, Lil, Angelica, and Dil find themselves bored out
of their minds on a studio tour and decide to go on their own
exploration ... their imagination makes them the stars of some of
Hollywood's biggest movies. (Scheduled for launch Winter 1999)

-- "Shao Lin(TM)" -- This revolutionary 3D fighting adventure
combines the pure adrenalin rush of an eight player fighter, the
humor of legendary Hong Kong Kung Fu movies and a compelling
story mode to create the most complete fighting experience
available on the PlayStation. (Scheduled for launch Summer 1999)

-- "Ultimate 8 Ball(TM)" -- The next generation of pool games has
arrived with 14 different pool modes, 15 different table sizes
and shapes including hexagons, triangles and "L" shapes, 18 fully
3D rendered opponents and the most accurate physics engine of any
pool game. (Scheduled for launch June 1999)

PC titles THQ will be showcasing at E3:

-- "Felony Pursuit" -- It's chase or be chased in this multi-player
racing game featuring cutting-edge car physics and a chillingly
realistic virtual city complete with seven distinct neighborhoods
where players play both sides of the law. (Scheduled for launch
Winter 2000)

-- "Sinistar(R): Unleashed" -- Based on the original arcade classic
"Sinistar," players blast through asteroids and collect vital
energy crystals through 24 graphically stunning, 3D-accelerated
single-player levels in their quest to kill the enemy Sinistar.
(Scheduled for launch Summer 1999)

-- "Ultimate 8 Ball(TM)" -- The next generation of pool games has
arrived with 14 different pool modes, 15 different table sizes
and shapes including hexagons, triangles and "L" shapes, 18
fully 3D rendered opponents and the most accurate physics engine
of any pool sim. (Scheduled for launch June 1999)

Game Boy Color titles THQ will be showcasing at E3:

-- "BASS Masters Classic(R)" -- Players can practice reeling 'em in
wherever they go under changing weather conditions and at several
lakes as B.A.S.S. licensed bass fishing moves to the Game Boy
Color, featuring unsurpassed fish-like behavior and underwater
and strike viewing screens. (Scheduled for launch Winter 1999)

-- "FIFA 2000" -- From slide-tackles to penalty shots, the world's
most popular sport is coming to the world's most popular
hand-held gaming system, offering players all the non-stop action
and thrills of a quest for the world champion title.
(Scheduled for launch Fall 1999)

-- "Madden NFL 2000" -- Coach Madden has been working overtime to
ensure players can pull all the juke moves, monster hits and
sideline grabs NFL fans should expect from the top rated
interactive football franchise.
(Scheduled for launch Fall 1999)

-- "Micro Machines(R) 1&2: Twin Turbo" (Working Title) -- Two combat
racing games in one! Take the helm of numerous land, air and sea
vehicles from the popular Micro Machines line as players race and
battle their way to the finish line. (Scheduled for launch Summer
1999)

-- "Micro Machines(R) V3" (Working Title) -- From the popular
MicroMachines line comes breakneck racing of the fastest
miniature cars with explosive weapon power-ups, hidden cars and
the wildest tracks in the series.
(Scheduled for launch Winter 1999)

-- "NHL(R) 2000" -- Throw a bone-crushing hip-check to steal the
puck from some of the best hockey players in the world in pursuit
of one of the most prestigious trophies in world sports, Lord
Stanley's Cup.
(Scheduled for launch Fall 1999)

-- "NBA Live 2000" -- Players choose their favorite team from the
world's premiere basketball league and run both ends of the court
performing all the slam dunks and three pointers from the
superstars of the NBA.
(Scheduled for launch Winter 1999)

-- "Rugrats(TM): Time Machine" (Working Title) -- Join Tommy and his
lovable pals as they waddle through a series of adventures based
on the No. 1 children's television show from Nickelodeon's
Rugrats! (Scheduled for launch Winter 1999)

-- "Disney/Pixar's Tiger Woods PGA TOUR(R) 2000" -- Packing all the
action of EA SPORTS' landmark series, this hand-held version
ensures that the avid golfer never has to leave the course.
(Scheduled for launch Fall 1999)

-- "Toy Story 2" -- Rescue Woody from the clutches of an
unscrupulous toy collector in this all-new adventure based on
Disney and Pixar's computer-generated animated film; Toy Story 2.
(Scheduled for launch Fall 1999)

-- "WWF(TM)" (Working Title) -- This trip into the squared circle
allows players to hold the world's most powerful and sought-after
wrestlers in the palm of their hands. (Scheduled for launch
Winter 1999)

-- "Yoda Stories(TM)" -- As Luke Skywalker, players will harness the
Force while training to become a Jedi Knight and battling through
numerous puzzle-based missions involving exotic aliens, map
exploration and the Galactic Empire. (Scheduled for launch Winter
1999)
*T

THQ Inc. develops, publishes and distributes interactive
entertainment software worldwide for a variety of hardware platforms
including PC CD-ROM, and those manufactured by Nintendo and Sony. The
THQ Web site is located at www.thq.com.