Don Traeger Productions Signs Development Deal with Sony Interactive Studios of America; Industry Veteran Launches Game Development Studio; Aligns with Several Key Partners on Select Projects.

SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 2, 1997--Don Traeger Productions (DT Productions), a newly-formed game development studio, today announced it has signed a development deal with Sony Interactive Studios of America.

Led by 15 year industry veteran, Don Traeger, the company has begun work on a soon to be announced game project. Over the next year, DT Productions plans to focus on select action and sports titles for the PlayStation and high-end PCs, and is currently working with other industry heavyweights, including Electronic Arts.

"DT Productions brings the caliber of experience, talent and passion that we look for in a development partner," stated Kelly Flock, president of Sony Interactive Studios of America. "Don and his team have a remarkable track record in reaching the target market with games that speak directly to the PlayStation and PC audiences. Their contributions will be valuable to Sony."

Traeger's industry credentials include over ten years at Electronic Arts (EA), where he was instrumental in the company's successful entry into the console video game market and was also a co-founder of EA SPORTS. He was responsible for hit games such as Skate or Die, Lakers vs. Celtics, (the first EA SPORTS branded title), Jordan vs. Bird: One on One, and PGA TOUR Golf, among others.

Most recently, Traeger was the vice president of worldwide product development for BMG Interactive and secured key alliances with sought after developers such as Delphine Software International. Working with Delphine, Traeger spearheaded the production of acclaimed racing title Moto Racer (published by EA), a game that garnered praise for its stunning accelerated 3D graphics on the PC and its rich, enthralling game play on the PlayStation. He has continued work with EA as creative liaison on an undisclosed title in the company's high-profile 1998 line-up.

Larry Probst, chairman and chief executive officer of Electronic Arts remarked, "Don has a demonstrated ability to bring great interactive entertainment products to market. His creative vision and commercial instincts have helped to deliver innovative games that anticipate the demands of video game consumers."

Joining DT Productions is another senior game veteran, Dennis Harper, whose career spans an impressive 17 years with Atari Games. An expert programmer and game designer, Harper has been responsible for creating numerous blockbuster coin-operated games such as Primal Rage, a title he conceptualized, designed and produced. Some of his additional credits include classic arcade titles Toobin, Road Riot, Moto Frenzy, and Return of the Jedi.

DT Productions is also aligned with investment partner Techfund Capital Management, a Silicon Valley-based investment and management consulting firm which is involved with some of the entertainment software industry's most promising new companies.

"Don and Dennis have been among the most successful game development talents in the industry," noted Jim Whims, managing director with Techfund Capital Management. "With our financial backing and management expertise, DT Productions can focus on what it does best -- making great games. Several major publishers and strategic partners have already identified the potential benefits of working with a team of this stature."

One such company is 3Dfx, whose president, Greg Ballard commented, "The continued success of 3Dfx is dependent upon our ability to partner with the very best content creators. We look forward to exploring opportunities with DT Productions, a development studio that shares our vision of pushing the limits in next generation gaming."

DT Productions is an independent game development studio focused on creating select action and sports game titles for high-end computers and leading consoles. The company is currently working with Sony Interactive Studios and Electronic Arts, and is in negotiations with additional strategic partners. DT Productions is based in San Jose, CA. -0-

Note to Editors: DT Productions has begun recruiting efforts for a number of key game development positions. Please post contact info in job listings section where appropriate. Resumes can be sent to: [e-mail]

DT Productions is a trademark of Don Traeger Productions, Inc. Electronic Arts, EA SPORTS, Skate or Die and Jordan vs. Bird: One on One are trademarks or registered trademarks of Electronic Arts in the U.S. and/or other countries. Moto Racer is a trademark of Delphine Software International. PGA TOUR is a trademark of PGA TOUR, Inc. PlayStation is a trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment, Inc. All other names are trademarks of their respective holders.

CONTACT: Thornton Neff Communications

Laurie Thornton Neff, 408/774-1130

[e-mail]