SEGA SPORTS LAUNCHES NHL 2K2 - ADDING FAST-PACED HOCKEY SIM TO SOLID 2K2 LINE UP

Sega Sports NHL 2K2 Takes to the Ice with New Gameplay Animations, a Revamped Graphics Engine and Improved Artificial Intelligence

SAN FRANCISCO (February 12, 2002) - Sega Sports(tm), the brand that continues to set new standards in sports gaming, today announced the release of "Sega Sports NHL 2K2" for the 128-bit, Internet-ready Sega Dreamcast(tm) video game console. "Sega Sports NHL 2K2" has all new gameplay, enhanced artificial intelligence, and a totally revamped graphics engine that delivers smooth animations at a lightning quick 60 frames per second. Produced by Visual Concepts, a member of the Sega group and makers of the acclaimed NFL 2K and NBA 2K series, "Sega Sports NHL 2K2" offers sports video gamers an ultra-realistic, hard-hitting, hockey experience which is sure to satisfy even the most discriminating hockey fan.

"We are thrilled to have hockey back in our 2K2 line-up," said Tom Nichols, group director of sports marketing, Sega of America. "Visual Concepts has crafted an exceptional hockey video game, with no detail spared. 'Sega Sports NHL 2K2' delivers exciting gameplay, a fast frame rate and unparalleled realism that will give gamers the most intense, action-packed hockey video game experience available."

"Sega Sports NHL 2K2" has fluid controls and a revamped graphics engine that delivers the most blistering of slap shots, along with mind boggling dekes at a quick 60 frames per second. Improved goaltending and enhanced player physics provide gamers with a knuckle-biting experience that includes all of the drama of real hockey. Players will be able to participate in tense faceoffs, elaborate score-related celebrations and heated battles after particularly hard checks.

Enhanced artificial intelligence gives "Sega Sports NHL 2K2" incredible realism, as players think and react just like they do in the NHL. See players in "Sega Sports NHL 2K2" turn their head to receive a pass, lose and regain their balance, perform bone-crushing checks, deliver powerful slap shots and celebrate after amazing plays. On defense, gamers can choose whether to bring in their own intimidating checking line to loosen up the offense or use the skater with the most stamina to defend during a power play. Improved artificial intelligence let the NHL's best netminders play all the angles to anticipate any given shot, with moves including glove, stick, blocker, kick, butterfly and stack-the-pads saves.

International Mode allows players to take on the world's finest to determine which country owns bragging rights and who should sharpen their skills to take their teams to the next level. Also adding to the realism, "Sega Sports NHL 2K2" features all-new commentary with smart announcers who provide detailed play-by-play analysis, while frantic crowds react to offensive drives and power plays with unabashed enthusiasm.

New and improved physics take into account a variety of variables and combinations, including the player's mass and his general puck-handling skills. Like the actual NHL, in "Sega Sports NHL 2K2" a bigger skater with strong puck-handling ability will fend off hooks and checks with greater ease than smaller, more agile players, who can be knocked off the puck more easily. Speed and strength aren't the only variables, as skilled players with high hockey intelligence will find themselves in a position to execute plays, which faster, less skilled players may not be able to finish. The star forward will be in the right spot on the ice at the right time in "NHL 2K2," in order to plant the game winning one-timer in the back of the net.

Endorsed by Colorado Avalanche forward and Stanley Cup* winner, Chris Drury, who appears on the cover of the game, "Sega Sports NHL 2K2" keeps current with updated arenas, team uniforms and rosters that reflect all trades and rookie signings for the 2001-2002 season.

"Sega Sports NHL 2K2" is available at retailers nationwide for $39.95. The game is rated "E" for everyone.

About Sega

NHL, National Hockey League, the NHL Shield and the Stanley Cup are registered trademarks of the National Hockey League. All NHL logos and marks and team logos and marks depicted herein are the property of the NHL and the respective teams and may not be reproduced without the prior written consent of NHL Enterprises, L.P. © 2002 NHL. All rights reserved.

Officially Licensed Product of the NHLPA. NHLPA, National Hockey League Players' Association and the NHLPA logo are trademarks of the NHLPA and are used under license by Sega. © NHLPA.