Blockbuster opens the doors to a new dimension in local entertainment.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 17, 1994-- Blockbuster Entertainment Group, a division of Viacom Inc., announced its first venture into location-based entertainment with the introduction of Block Party.

A state-of-the-art indoor entertainment complex, Block Party brings a new brand of fun and excitement into America's neighborhoods. The first Block Party will open its doors in Albuquerque, N.M., on Dec. 19.

Identifying a new growth opportunity, Block Party targets adults aged 18 to 45 with an alternative destination for exciting interactive recreation. With many options, such as an adult-oriented high-tech playground and motion-based simulator experience, to spontaneous giveaways and a relaxed party atmosphere, Block Party offers a new adventure with each visit.

``We've put together a unique combination of entertainment elements in a fun, highly themed environment,'' Bill Burns, president of Blockbuster's Entertainment Center Division, said. ``This, together with the food and beverage experience, makes Block Party the entertainment destination for dating couples and groups of friends. We're excited to offer such a fun, safe and quality environment to these Block Party communities.''

Using an original architectural design, Block Party's neighborhood configuration allows guests to feel as though they have been transported into a ``city within a city.''

Block Party's atmosphere, carefully orchestrated through the use of thematics, animation and special effects, is brought to life by eight unique areas and attractions: Power Grid, Virtua Alley, Soup'er Bloopers, Go Motion Pictures, Flippers, The Tube, Infomania and Alarm 'N Stuff.

All Block Party attractions and electronic games are accessed with a Fun Card, an electronic debit card. These special cards can be purchased in any denomination at Infomania. The Fun Card is inserted and read like a credit card, with the appropriate charge, which varies at each attraction, instantly subtracted from the total value on the card.

Fun Cards can be ``recharged'' by adding additional dollar values at Infomania or free-standing Fun Card machines. A variety of Fun Card Party Package deals will be available at Infomania.

Cities planned for ground-breaking Block Party openings include Albuquerque on Dec. 19 and Indianapolis in January 1995. Future suburban Block Party sites will model these premier locations.

Block Party will be open for action daytime and evenings, seven days a week. Admission to Block Party is free.

Like any party, Block Party changes to meet the interests of its guests. From giveaways to special events, Block Party will take a fresh approach to offering spontaneous entertainment. The Tube has the flexibility to change its entertainment focus with various theme nights and will be available for private parties (including office functions, bachelor parties and wedding showers).

This ever-changing affair is sure to leave people wondering, ``What's happening at Block Party tonight?''

Blockbuster Entertainment Group is a division of Viacom, a leader in nearly every segment of the communications marketplace. Blockbuster has responsibility for domestic and international video and music retailing, family entertainment centers, interactive technology systems, Spelling Entertainment, Paramount theme parks and Showtime Networks Inc.

The Blockbuster system includes more than 3,900 video stores operating in all 50 states, Guam, Puerto Rico and 10 other countries. Blockbuster also operates 541 music stores, including 20 internationally in a joint venture with Virgin Retail Group. Blockbuster has headquarters in Fort Lauderdale.

CONTACT: Manning, Selvage & Lee, Universal City, Calif.

              Charlene Gigliotti or Vickie Allande
              818/509-1840, ext. 273