OUT NOW, ‘NARUTO™ SHIPPUDEN: LEGENDS: AKATSUKI RISING’ FOR PSP® LAUNCHES ITS JUTSU ATTACK ON RETAIL

- NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe Unleashes Hand-held Ninja Fury Across the PAL Regions -

CERGY-PONTOISE, FRANCE – 25 September 2009 – Ninjas take note: NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe S.A.S today launched the latest game in the massively popular global franchise, NARUTO™ Shippuden: Legends: Akatsuki Rising, available now at retailers across Europe and the PAL regions exclusively for PSP® (PlayStation® Portable).

“There's no stopping the Naruto ninja machine, which is going from strength to strength with the global anime TV series phenomenon and hugely successful video game series,” said Hiro Ochiai Vice President Sales and Marketing, NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe. “With NARUTO Shippuden: Legends: Akatsuki Rising, never before has so much ninja been put in the palm of your hand.”

Naruto and his friends are in for the fight of their lives as they search for Gaara, the fifth Kazekage, who has been kidnapped by the dreaded Akatsuki organization. It’s a race against time as the Akatsuki attempts to release Shukaku, the demon sealed inside Gaara.

Based on the popular NARUTO Shippuden animated series, players take control of over 10 of their favourite ninja, including the dreaded Akatsuki, as they re-live the NARUTO Shippuden storyline and experience a brand new adventure.

NARUTO Shippuden: Legends: Akatsuki Rising boasts streamlined controls for the PSP, ensuring furious tactical battles and maximising Jutsu attacks to devastate enemies. Players can gain advantage in the heat of a battle by selecting two support characters to form a three-man team and combining skills to discover the ultimate enemy-smashing combos.

Multiple modes of play include Original Mode following the Gaara Retrieval Arc, Scenario Mode with all-new side-missions, Akatsuki Mode featuring a brand-new storyline, and finally, two-player Cooperative or Versus play via ad-hoc local wireless network to really sort the men from the ninjas.

For more information on the game, please visit www.namcobandaigames.eu and www.naruto-videogames.com. For more information on NARUTO and to view free episodes of NARUTO Shippuden, please visit www.naruto.com

About NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe:

NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe S.A.S., is a leading interactive entertainment software publisher based in Cergy-Pontoise, France. The company is a part of the NAMCO BANDAI group of companies known for creating and publishing many of the industry's top video game franchises including the RidgeRacer™, Tekken™, SOULCALIBUR™, Tamagotchi™, Digimon™, Dragonball® and Naruto™ brands.

© 2002 MASASHI KISHIMOTO / 2007 SHIPPUDEN. All Rights Reserved.

"PlayStation" and the "PS" Family logo are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

# # #

For media assets visit www.namcobandaipartners-press.com

 

 - It’s a Four Player Ninja Battle-Royale on PSP, Coming Summer 2010 -

CERGY-PONTOISE, FRANCE – 15 January 2010 – Leading video games publisher and developer NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe S.A.S. confirm the European release of NARUTO Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 3, coming summer 2010 exclusively for PSP® (PlayStation® Portable). The game follows Naruto and his continuing adventures to save his friend Sasuke, based on the popular animated show NARUTO Shippuden. NARUTO Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 3 enhances the fun and accessible battle system the series is known for by introducing four-player battles, an all-new adventure mode, and a brand new roster of powerful characters.

“The Ultimate Ninja series from CyberConnect2 continues to be one of NAMCO BANDAI Games’ most popular franchises,” said Yasu Nishimura, director of marketing for NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe. “NARUTO Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 3 continues to innovate and refine the series’ trademark fighting mechanic, ensuring gamers at any skill level can fight like a true ninja.”

NARUTO Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 3 puts players’ fighting spirits to the test with intense and frantic battles while using one of more than 50 characters including Young Kakashi and Obito Uchida from the NARUTO Shippuden special, Kakashi Chronicles. For the first time in the series’ history, NARUTO Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 3 expands upon the series’ trademark fighting engine and updates it for four-player brawls. Team up with a partner to unleash a devastatingly powerful Jutsu team attack on your opponents, or interrupt an enemy’s Ultimate Jutsu to help or hinder another player.

Additionally, NARUTO Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 3 features an Ultimate "Master Road" mode where players can re-live the Shippuden storyline up to the Hidan and Kakuzu arc and continue through an all-new adventure. This mode also features a three player cooperative mode which let players experience the full adventure through an ad hoc connection. During his quests, Naruto will also engage in Battle or Action stages. Each stage will contain a specific objective for Naruto to complete, including intense fights, escaping from danger, and much more.

- 'NARUTO Shippuden' Saga to Make its Feature-packed, Debut on Xbox 360® and PlayStation®3 for the Perfect Ninja Storm, Coming Autumn 2010 -

CERGY-PONTOISE, FRANCE – 4 February 2010 – Batten down the hatches, there's a storm headed this way. NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe S.A.S. today announced the forthcoming launch of NARUTO™ Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 2 for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PlayStation®3, the first game based on the global hit Naruto Shippuden manga and anime to appear on the consoles. Packed with new features and enhancements, a comprehensive character line up and stunning graphics, NARUTO Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 2 is scheduled for launch across PAL territories in autumn 2010.

Developed by acclaimed Japanese studio CyberConnect2, NARUTO Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 2 is a tour de force of Naruto thrills and spills. Impressively faithfully to the universe of the anime, the game takes players through the Naruto Shippuden story arc with new battle systems enhancing the gameplay. Players must choose the right companions to fight alongside for a greater chance of winning, and together unleash explosive Team Special Techniques to lay waste to opponents.

Players will meet a host of criminal Akatsuki characters in the game, and in an astonishing story twist even see Sasuke wearing an Akatsuki costume. With the original Japanese voiceover, an almost endless number of unlockables and power ups to discover, a host of brand new environments to explore, two-player offline multiplayer, amazing visuals faithful to the anime, NARUTO Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 2 is an unmissable tornado of fierce ninja action.

Naruto is the #1 best-selling manga across Europe, with the hit anime TV series currently broadcast worldwide to massive audiences. Since 2003 NAMCO BANDAI Games has been the leading company selling video games based on the Naruto license.

For more information about NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe and its entire line up of games please visit www.namcobandaigames.eu.
 

Intense Battle System, New Features and a Huge Roster Rounds out Naruto’s Latest Epic Adventure
 

CERGY-PONTOISE, FRANCE – 12 April 2010 – Leading video games publisher and developer NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe S.A.S. announced today that NARUTO™ SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja® Heroes 3 has gone gold for the PSP system. Based on the popular animated NARUTO SHIPPUDEN series, NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 3 refines the series’ trademark fighting mechanics by offering an all-new adventure mode, a new roster of fierce ninja, and robust multiplayer battles. NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 3 is developed by CyberConnect2 and will be available throughout EMEA and Asia Pacific Regions on May 14, 2010.

In NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 3 players can re-live the NARUTO SHIPPUDEN storyline up to the Hidan and Kakuzu arc in the new Master Road mode as they follow the Nine-Tail Fox ninja in his continuing adventures to save his friend Sasuke. With more than 80 action-packed missions, players’ skills are put to the test as they face intense battles using one of more than 50 characters.

Now for the first time in the series’ history, NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 3 expands upon the series’ renowned fighting engine and updates it for four-player brawls. Through an ad-hoc connection, players can team up with a partner to take on opponents while unleashing devastating Jutsu attacks or single-handedly battle multiple enemies. Additionally, NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 3 features a three-player cooperative mode which allows players to experience select adventures in the main story. As Naruto explores familiar settings throughout the Leaf and Sand villages, players will also be tasked to complete specific missions including winning battles, evading danger and much more.

NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 3 will be available on May 14, 2010. For more information on the game, please visit www.namcobandaigames.eu
 

- 'NARUTO Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 2' for Xbox 360® and PlayStation®3 to Debut Brand New Online Gameplay and Support Characters System this Autumn 2010 -

CERGY-PONTOISE, FRANCE – 19 April 2010 - NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe S.A.S. today unveiled a suite of exciting new gameplay features including online versus play coming to NARUTO™ Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 2 at launch this autumn 2010. The first game based on the worldwide smash Naruto Shippuden manga and anime to hit Xbox 360® and PlayStation®3, NARUTO Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 2 now promises the ultimate online storm and evolved Support Characters System to let budding ninjas the world over flex their impressive jutsus for all to see.

Online features include:

• Player Match: take on rival ninjas to sharpen your skills or just for kicks with the following match types:
o Quick Match: play deadly ninja roulette with random opponent selection;
o Custom Match: choose opponent search criteria and pick your fights;
o Create Match: host a match and wait for opponents to take you on;
• Ranked Match: challenge and defeat players around the world to improve your global ranking and become the true ultimate ninja. The same three match types apply as for Player Match;
• Ranking System: compare your skills and strengths with players the world over and climb your way up the global rankings;

The game also features a new and improved Support Characters System where players can call upon allies for help in battle. Now there’s even more ways to prove your ninja worth.

Developed by acclaimed Japanese studio CyberConnect2, NARUTO Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 2 takes players through the Naruto Shippuden story arc faithful to the anime, with thrilling plot twists, explosive new battle systems, amazing visuals, rich new environments to explore, the original Japanese voiceover and almost endless unlockables and power ups for dazzling battle action.

Naruto is the #1 best-selling manga across Europe, with the hit anime TV series currently broadcast worldwide to massive audiences. Since 2003 NAMCO BANDAI Games has been the leading company selling video games based on the Naruto license.

For more information about NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe and its entire line up of games please visit www.namcobandaigames.eu.
 

- Free Downloadable Demo Lets Up To Four Budding Ninjas Kick Each Other’s Asses For the First Time Ever on PSP -

From today NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe is giving Naruto fans a tantalising taste of the all-new frantic 4-player ninja action to come in NARUTO Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 3 with the release of the multiplayer demo available for free download via PlayStation® Network exclusively for PSP® (PlayStation® Portable). The demo will also be available on May 4 on www.naruto-videogames.com and www.namcobandaigames.eu

As in the full game, up to four players can battle it out head to head in the demo via ad hoc connection, with players stepping into the shoes of one of the four powerful characters included – Naruto, Kakashi, Pain and Konan – to prove their ninja worth. Playable in either single player free battle or ad hoc multiplayer modes, the three maps included with the demo are Village Hidden in the Leaves, Akatsuki Hideout and Cliff of Morning Mist, giving players a glimpse of where they will be able to strut their ninja stuff in the full game.

NARUTO Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 3 continues the video game adventures based on the hit animated TV show NARUTO Shippuden, introducing four-player ad hoc battles for the first time alongside the new 3-player co-op Ultimate Master Road mode, an all-new adventure mode, over 50 playable characters, wild jutsu action and thrilling new adventures. No self-respecting ninja should be without it.

NARUTO Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 3 is scheduled for launch across Europe on 14th May 2010 exclusively for PSP. For more information about NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe and its line up, please visit www.namcobandaigames.eu.

© 2002 MASASHI KISHIMOTO / 2007 SHIPPUDEN All Rights Reserved.
Game © 2009 NAMCO BANDAI Games Inc.
Published by NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe SAS

“PlayStation”, the “PS” Family logo and “PSP” are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Memory Stick Duo™ may be required (sold separately).
 

- Free Downloadable Demo Lets Up To Four Budding Ninjas Kick Each Other’s Asses For the First Time Ever on PSP -

NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe is giving Naruto fans a tantalising taste of the all-new frantic 4-player ninja action to come in NARUTO Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 3 with the release of the multiplayer demo available for PSP® (PlayStation® Portable).

As in the full game, up to four players can battle it out head to head in the demo via ad hoc connection, with players stepping into the shoes of one of the four powerful characters included – Naruto, Kakashi, Pain and Konan – to prove their ninja worth. Playable in either single player free battle or ad hoc multiplayer modes, the three maps included with the demo are Village Hidden in the Leaves, Akatsuki Hideout and Cliff of Morning Mist, giving players a glimpse of where they will be able to strut their ninja stuff in the full game.

NARUTO Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 3 is scheduled for launch across Europe on 14th May 2010 exclusively for PSP.
 

- The First NARUTO SHIPPUDEN Video Game is Available Now in Europe and PAL Regions -

CERGY-PONTOISE, FRANCE – 30 April 2009 – NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe S.A.S. today announced the launch of NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja 4, the first video game based on the NARUTO SHIPPUDEN anime series, available now at retailers across Europe and PAL regions. Featuring the series’ trademark one-on-one ninja battles, the game introduces new and exciting characters to make up the biggest roster of playable characters ever in the Ultimate Ninja franchise, alongside new engaging game modes to deliver the most comprehensive NARUTO video game experience in the history of the series.

NARUTO SHIPPUDEN : Ultimate Ninja 4 is the first video game based on NARUTO SHIPPUDEN, giving players their first look at how Naruto’s world changed in the two and a half years since he left his friends to refine his ninja training. Returning to help save his rival Sasuke from the evil Orochimaru, Naruto is reunited with all his old friends, only to find that a mysterious organization known as Akatsuki now poses an even more ominous threat to the Village.

NARUTO SHIPPUDEN : Ultimate Ninja 4 features several unique game modes that allow players to immerse themselves deeper into the world of ninja. The new Master Mode combines role-playing and action platforming elements, telling the story of how Naruto came to return to the Hidden Leaf Village after his training with Jiraiya. Players can collect items in this mode to unlock characters in Free Battle Mode, featuring the series’ trademark one-on-one ninja battles for one or two players. Packed with new NARUTO SHIPPUDEN characters such as Deidara, Sasori and Chiyo as well as updated versions of fan favorites such as Gaara, Kakashi and Sakura, the game features a total of 52 playable characters to take into battle.

Developed by CyberConnect2, NARUTO SHIPPUDEN : Ultimate Ninja 4 features the biggest roster of playable characters in the Ultimate Ninja series and a variety of new and engaging game modes to let Naruto fans immerse themselves in the storyline of NARUTO SHIPPUDEN. NARUTO SHIPPUDEN : Ultimate Ninja 4 is available now at retailers in Europe and the PAL regions for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system. For more information on the game, please visit www.naruto-videogames.com.

About NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe:
NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe S.A.S., is a leading interactive entertainment software publisher based in Cergy-Pontoise, France. The company is a part of the NAMCO BANDAI group of companies known for creating and publishing many of the industry's top video game franchises including the RidgeRacer™, Tekken™, SOULCALIBUR™, Tamagotchi™, Digimon™, Dragonball® and Naruto™ brands.

© 2002 MASASHI KISHIMOTO / 2007 SHIPPUDEN All Rights Reserved.
Game designed by NAMCO BANDAI Games Inc. Published by NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe SAS
 

- The First NARUTO SHIPPUDEN Video Game is Coming to Europe in May 2009 with Intense One-on-one Combat, Biggest Ever Roster of Ninjas, and New Game Modes -

PARIS, FRANCE – 17 February 2009 – NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe today announced NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja 4, the first video game based on the NARUTO SHIPPUDEN anime series. Featuring the series’ trademark one-on-one ninja battles, the game debuts a number of new and exciting characters as well as several new modes of play for the most comprehensive NARUTO video game experience ever.

Set two and a half years after Naruto left the Hidden Leaf Village to undergo a strict training regiment with his mentor Jiraiya, NARUTO SHIPPUDEN : Ultimate Ninja 4 lets players experience this exciting new storyline for the first time. Returning to help save his rival Sasuke from the evil Orochimaru, Naruto is reunited with all his old friends, only to find that a mysterious organization known as Akatsuki now poses an even more ominous threat to the Village.

NARUTO SHIPPUDEN : Ultimate Ninja 4 features several unique game modes that offer different play experiences as players immerse themselves in the world of ninja. The new Master Mode combines role-playing and action platforming elements, telling the story of how Naruto came to return to the Hidden Leaf Village after his training with Jiraiya. Players can collect items in this mode to unlock characters in Free Battle Mode, featuring the series’ trademark one-on-one ninja battles for one or two players. Packed with new NARUTO SHIPPUDEN characters such as Deidara, Sasori and Chiyo as well as updated versions of fan favorites such as Gaara, Kakashi and Sakura, the game features 52 total playable characters to take into battle.

NARUTO SHIPPUDEN : Ultimate Ninja 4 will be the first video game based on NARUTO SHIPPUDEN, giving players their first look at how Naruto’s world has changed in the two and a half years since he left his friends to refine his ninja training. Featuring the biggest roster of playable characters ever in the Ultimate Ninja franchise and a variety of new and engaging game modes, it’s everything Naruto fans need to immerse themselves in the characters and storyline of NARUTO SHIPPUDEN.

Developed by CyberConnect2, NARUTO SHIPPUDEN : Ultimate Ninja 4 is slated for release on the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system this May 2009. For more information on the game, please visit www.naruto-videogames.com.

About NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe:
NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe S.A.S., is a leading interactive entertainment software publisher based in Cergy-Pontoise, France. The company is a part of the NAMCO BANDAI group of companies known for creating and publishing many of the industry's top video game franchises including the RidgeRacer™, Tekken™, SOULCALIBUR™, Tamagotchi™, Digimon™, Dragonball® and Naruto™ brands.

© 2002 MASASHI KISHIMOTO / 2007 SHIPPUDEN All Rights Reserved.
Game designed by NAMCO BANDAI Games Inc. Published by NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe SAS
 

- Naruto Storms Europe with Full 3D Combat, Free-Roaming Exploration, Stunning Anime Visuals and Free Downloadable Content, Available Now -

LYON, FRANCE – 7 November 2008 – Atari enters the eye of the ninja storm with the news that NAMCO BANDAI Games’ Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm is available now at retailers across Europe exclusively for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system. Based on the popular Naruto animated television series currently on air across Europe, the game delivers massive scale ninja action with full 3D combat, free exploration and high definition visuals that go beyond traditional hand-drawn animation. Offering players more Naruto than ever before, additional free downloadable content is available from launch and over the coming months to keep the storm raging.

A total of ten free packs of downloadable content will be available to European fans via PLAYSTATION® Network from launch to April 2009. Each pack contains a new support character plus a brand new single player mission giving players more ways to fight and explore the universe of Naruto. The full schedule is as follows:
• November 6, 2008: Character: Shizune; Mission: Aim for Higher Goals
• December 4, 2008: Character: Asuma; Mission: Intense hide-and-seek battle
• December 18, 2008: Character: Kurenai; Mission: Inuzuka clan's challenge
• January 8, 2009: Character: Anko; Mission: Grand order to capture Jiraiya
• January 22, 2009: Character: Jirobo; Mission: The three siblings' evaluation
• February 5, 2009: Character: Kidoumaru; Mission: The Hidden Sand challenges again
• February 19 2009: Character: Tayuya; Mission: A new squad is formed
• March 5, 2009: Character: Sakon; Mission: Desperate successive battles
• April 2, 2009: Character: The first Hokage; Mission: Overflowing dangerous power
• April 2, 2009: Character: The second Hokage: Mission: Surpass your predecessors

Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm evolves the head-to-head fighting action of the Ultimate Ninja series with battles set in full 3D across massive environments. Players can unleash powerful jutsu attacks, perform acrobatic evasive manoeuvres and even run up walls and over water as they pursue their opponent for ninja supremacy. Players can customize their character’s fighting style and recruit up to two support characters to put their own stamp on the action. Each character in the game is capable of transforming into powerful Awakening forms under certain gameplay conditions, offering new traits and abilities to the game’s impressive ninja roster of 25 popular characters from the animated series. Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm supports head-to-head multiplayer fighting for up to two players.

Allowing players to further immerse themselves in the world of Naruto, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm introduces all-new free-roaming exploration across the Hidden Leaf Village. Players can search every inch of these iconic environments to take on more than 100 unique missions, collect valuable scrolls and interact with additional characters from the Naruto animated series. Injecting additional variety to the game’s head-to head combat, these missions include races, special deliveries and large-scale battles against massive opponents.

Taking advantage of an original next-generation graphics engine, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm boasts fluid animation, incredible visual detail and an advanced facial expression system to create high-definition graphics on the PLAYSTATION 3 that surpass traditional hand-drawn animation. Replicating the same environments, characters and effects as the hit animated series, this new technology allows gamers to become a part of the world of Naruto like never before.

Developed by CyberConnect2, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm for PLAYSTATION 3 is published by NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe SAS, distributed in Europe by Atari, and available now at retailers across Europe.

- Biggest Ever Selection of Playable Ninjas on PlayStation®2 Fight Their Way into Retailers Across Europe -

LYON, FRANCE – 5 September 2008 – Atari launches a flying kick with the news that NAMCO BANDAI Games’ Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 3 for PlayStation®2 is available now at European retailers. Based on the Naruto Universe popularised by the anime TV show currently on air across Europe, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 3 boasts the largest selection of playable ninja characters, brand new playing modes for more gameplay variety, and unprecedented freedom and immersion into the Naruto world with a 3D rendered Hidden Leaf Village. For the first time in the series, players also have the option of choosing between English and Japanese voiceover to savour the original flavour of the anime series.

Brand new modes include ‘Ultimate Contest’ which is the primary component of Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 3 and revolves around the Hidden Leaf Village where the All-Out Ninja Tournament is being held between the rival Leaf and Sand ninja. The tournament must be won to save the village! The player enters the Naruto world to explore the expansive 3D rendered Hidden Leaf Village and to engage in all out battle royale matches, interact with residents in the village and complete over 55 missions. Relive major events and battles from the anime series through the Sasuke Retrieval Arc in another new mode called ‘Hero's History’ to determine the fate of the two greatest ninja.

Players will be spoilt for choice when choosing characters as Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 3 offers the biggest selection of playable characters with over 40 to choose from. The battles also got bigger with Summoning Mode which allows players to summon gigantic creatures as allies to fight off enemies. Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 3 also offers tons of combat variety either as close combat or using a variety of ranged weapons, and support characters can be called upon to help with super attacks and their own unique moves.

Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 3 for PlayStation 2 is published by NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe SAS, distributed in Europe by Atari, and available at retailers across Europe now.

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About NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe:
NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe S.A.S., is a leading interactive entertainment software publisher based in Cergy-Pontoise, France. The company is a part of the NAMCO BANDAI group of companies known for creating and publishing many of the industry's top video game franchises including the RidgeRacer™, Tekken™, SOULCALIBUR™, Tamagotchi™, Digimon™, Dragonball® and Naruto™ brands.

About Infogrames Entertainment and Atari:
The Infogrames group, including the Atari brand, is a global producer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment software for all market segments and all interactive game platforms including consoles from Microsoft, Nintendo and Sony, advanced smartphones, Personal Computers, web and online. Its games are sold in more than 60 countries through an international distribution network and direct to consumers via www.atari.com.

Atari’s extensive catalogue of popular games is based on original franchises (Alone in the Dark, Test Drive, V-Rally, My Horse & Me, Backyard Sports franchise, Total Annihilation, Outcast etc.), publishing properties (The Witcher, Legendary, Race Pro etc.), international licenses (Dragon Ball Z, Dungeons & Dragons, Jamie Oliver etc.) and classic games covering the entire history of the video game industry (Pong, Missile Command, Asteroids etc).

© 2002 MASASHI KISHIMOTO All rights reserved.
Game designed by NAMCO BANDAI Games Inc

"PlayStation" is a registered trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
 

- NAMCO BANDAI Games and Atari to Showcase Original Japanese Video Game Titles, Including World Exclusive First Play -

 LYON, FRANCE – 16 June 2007 – NAMCO BANDAI and Atari today announced their line-up of titles to be showcased at the ninth Japan Expo taking place at the Parc des Expositions, Paris Nord Villepinte from 3 to 6 July 2008. NAMCO BANDAI Games will be present once again to showcase an array of video game titles displaying the publisher’s breadth of gameplay variety with entertainment for everyone from ninja fighting to physical family fun.

 Fans of the cult Naruto and Dragon Ball Z anime series will be given first-hand experience on three brand new Naruto titles, including one worldwide exclusive, alongside Dragon Ball Z: Burst Limit launching on 6 June for Xbox 360 and PS3, while visitors wanting a light-hearted workout can get physical with friends and family on the hilarious Family Trainer for Wii.

Naruto fans will be particularly well served with playable versions of three new titles all out later in 2008, namely Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 3 and Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 2: The Phantom Fortress. The highly anticipated Naruto Ultimate Ninja Storm for PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system will be present at Japan Expo as a world exclusive first ever playable version.

Also as an exclusive for Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm, an official presentation of the game will be given by Mr Hitoshi Matsuyama, the director of CyberConnect 2, giving fans the chance to meet one of the key people behind the game. Visitors will also see a brand new exclusive trailer for the game, and be able to showcase their best ninja moves during an onsite tournament for a chance to win cool prizes. Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 3 for PlayStation®2 and Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 2: The Phantom Fortress for PSP (PlayStation® Portable) will also be playable at the event.

The recently released Dragon Ball Z: Burst Limit, the first ever next-gen Dragon Ball Z game boasting superior HD graphics and a highly anticipated global online feature, will also be on show for Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3. An explosive tournament is planned with an array of goodies to give away to the ultimate Dragon Ball Z champion fighter.

Family Trainer exclusively for Wii lets all the family and friends get physical by engaging the whole body in a variety of easy-to-understand, fast-paced and wildly entertaining activities based on outdoor themes. The game includes the specially designed Family Trainer mat controller which, when combined with the Wii Remote, lets players work themselves into a physical frenzy in a series of crazed challenges. More goodies will be given away throughout the event to visitors who clock up the highest scores. All visitors to the stand will have a chance to get their hands on an array of fantastic NAMCO BANDAI Games goodies for featuring a host of their favourite games and anime characters.

Japan Expo is a colourful and multifaceted four day celebration of Japanese entertainment, arts and culture taking place in the heart of France, a country which embraces Japanese culture as its own. For details about Japan Expo visit www.japanexpo.fr. 

About NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe SAS

NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe is one of the companies comprising the newly formed BANDAI NAMCO Group, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. On 29th September, 2005, BANDAI Co., Ltd and NAMCO LIMITED implemented a management integration to compete more effectively on the global stage in the fast-changing entertainment industry and deliver future growth. The resulting BANDAI NAMCO Group is a global entertainment operation involved in business fields ranging from toys, video game software and visual software to amusement machines & facilities and network content.

More information about NAMCO BANDAI Games, its products and services can be found online at www.namcobandaigames.eu

 About Infogrames Entertainment and Atari:

Infogrames Entertainment (IESA), the parent company of the Atari Group, is listed on the Paris Euronext stock exchange (ISIN code: FR-0000052573) and has two principal subsidiaries: Atari Europe, a privately-held company, and Atari, Inc., a United States corporation listed on NASDAQ (ATAR).

The Atari Group is an international producer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment software for all market segments and in all existing game formats (Microsoft, Nintendo and Sony) and on CD-ROM for PC. Its games are sold in more than 60 countries.

The Atari Group’s extensive catalogue of popular games is based on original franchises (Alone in the Dark, V-Rally, Test Drive, etc.) and international licenses (Dragon Ball Z, Dungeons & Dragons, etc.).

For more information: http://www.atari.com

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- Naruto’s PLAYSTATION 3 Debut Revolutionizes Ninja Action with Full 3D Combat, Free-Roaming Exploration and Incredible Anime Graphics -

LYON, FRANCE – Atari today announced the forthcoming European release of NAMCO BANDAI Games’ Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm exclusively for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system. Based on the popular Naruto animated television series currently on air across Europe, the game delivers ninja action on an unprecedented scale as players go head to head in full 3D combat, investigate every inch of the Hidden Leaf Village in open-world exploration and revel in high definition graphics that surpass traditional hand-drawn animation. Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm is scheduled for European release in November 2008.

Evolving the head-to-head fighting action of the Ultimate Ninja series, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm lets players battle in full 3D across massive environments. Players will unleash powerful jutsu attacks, perform acrobatic evasive manoeuvres and even run up walls and over water as they pursue their opponent for ninja supremacy. Players can customize their character’s fighting style and recruit up to two support characters to put their own stamp on the action. Each character in the game is capable of transforming into powerful Awakening forms under certain gameplay conditions, offering new traits and abilities to the game’s impressive ninja roster of 25 popular characters from the animated series. Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm supports head-to-head multiplayer fighting for up to two players.

Allowing players to further immerse themselves in the world of Naruto, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm introduces all-new free-roaming exploration across the Hidden Leaf Village and the Forest of Death. Players can search every inch of these iconic environments to take on 100 unique missions, collect valuable scrolls and interact with additional characters from the Naruto animated series. Injecting additional variety to the game’s head-to head combat, these missions include races, special deliveries and large-scale battles against massive opponents.

Taking advantage of an original next-generation graphics engine, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm boasts fluid animation, incredible visual detail and an advanced facial expression system to create high-definition graphics on the PLAYSTATION 3 that surpass traditional hand-drawn animation. Replicating the same environments, characters and effects as the hit animated series, this new technology allows gamers to become a part of the world of Naruto like never before.

Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm for PLAYSTATION 3 is published by NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe SAS, distributed in Europe by Atari, and scheduled for European release in November 2008.

- Largest Selection of Playable Ninja Coming to Europe in September 2008 for PlayStation®2 -

LYON, FRANCE – 29 April 2008 – Atari today announced the forthcoming European release of NAMCO BANDAI Games’ Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 3 for PlayStation®2. As the latest and most advanced in the fighting game series based on the Naruto Universe, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 3 boasts the largest ever selection of playable ninja characters, brand new playing modes for even more gameplay variety, and unprecedented freedom and immerson into the Naruto world with a 3D rendered Hidden Leaf Village. Set in the Naruto universe popularised by the anime TV show currently on air across Europe, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 3 is scheduled for European release in September 2008.

The game’s main story mode, Ultimate Contest, revolves around the Leaf Village where the All-Out Ninja Tournament is being held between the rival Leaf and Sand ninja. The winner of the tournament will be crowned Hokage and will be able to put forward a new rule for the Leaf Village, but this power must not fall into the wrong hands. To ensure this does not happen, the player enters the Naruto world to explore the massive 3D rendered Hidden Leaf Village, engage in all out battle royale matches, interact with residents in the village and complete over 55 missions.

Players can choose their favourite ninja from the most extensive selection of over 40 playable characters from the hit anime TV show including Naruto, Sasuke, Itachi, The Hokages, The Sound Ninja 4 and many more. Battles are made bigger than ever before by unleashing Ultimate Jutsu to customise favourite characters into powerful ninja warriors, and summoning gigantic creatures as allies in Summoning Mode. Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 3 also offers tons of combat variety either as close combat or using a variety of ranged weapons, and support characters can be called upon to help with super attacks.

Another unique feature of Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 3 is the Hero's History mode which lets the player participate in major events and battles from the anime series through the Sasuke Retrieval Arc where the decisive battle of destiny will be played out to determine the fate of the two greatest ninja. For the first time in the series, the player can choose between English and Japanese voiceover to enhance the original flavour of the anime series.

Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 3 for PlayStation 2 is published by NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe SAS, distributed in Europe by Atari, and scheduled for European release in September 2008.

- Superior Hand Held Fighting Experience with Massive Adventure Coming to Europe in July 2008 for PSP (PlayStation®Portable) System -

LYON, FRANCE – 21 April 2008 – Atari today announced the forthcoming European release of NAMCO BANDAI Games’ Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 2: The Phantom Fortress for PSP (PlayStation® Portable). The title utilizes the battle system of the PlayStation®2 Ultimate Ninja series, adding an exclusive storyline, full-blown battles with brand new jutsu and animation, and wireless multiplayer action to create a whole new Naruto adventure for PSP. Set in the Naruto universe popularised by the anime TV show currently on air across Europe, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 2: The Phantom Fortress is scheduled for release in July 2008.

A mysterious flying fortress has descended onto the Hidden Leaf Village. In the role of Naruto, the player must enter the fortress, uncover the hidden plot and unlock characters on the way up the 100 floors of the Phantom Fortress to ultimately defeat the enemy and unveil the explosive ending. Create teams of powerful ninja to aid you on your quest from over 20 of the most popular characters from the animated series, each with their unique Jutsu, combos and Special Techniques. The Secret Technique is a new battle system different to the special moves seen in previous Ultimate Ninja series which allows for faster, more explosive and intense action sequences unlike any other currently available on portable games. You can also power up your favourite characters to give you a winning edge in battle.

While staying faithful to the hugely popular anime, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 2: The Phantom Fortress boasts a completely new original adventure, plus co-op gameplay and multiplayer action. A choice of six thrilling gameplay modes ensures plenty of ninja ass-kicking battles. The deep single player MUGENJO Mode is filled with dramatic events, exciting movies and intriguing dialogue which let the player enjoy the story to the full. Other fun modes include the Naruto Points Mode for obtaining and viewing unlockable items and Wireless Battle Mode for challenging friends anytime, anywhere using the WLAN feature of PSP in six types of intense two-player battles using different team combinations.

Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 2: The Phantom Fortress for PSP is published by NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe SAS, distributed in Europe by Atari, and scheduled for European release in July 2008.

LYON, FRANCE – 14 January 2008–

Atari today announced the forthcoming European release of NAMCO BANDAI Games’ Naruto: Uzumaki Chronicles 2 for PlayStation®2 featuring a new original adventure, new characters and high-octane multiplayer co-op action. Set in the Naruto universe popularised by the anime TV show currently on air across Europe, Naruto: Uzumaki Chronicles 2 is scheduled for release in March 2008.

A new evil has risen and threatens to take over not only the Hidden Leaf Village, but all the other villages and ninja clans as well.  An ancient organization which was long thought disbanded is alive and well and in search of several orbs to resurrect a mechanical horror that will ravage the land.  It’s now up to Naruto and all the Hidden Leaf Genin to join forces with those of the Hidden Sand Village to stop this menace.

While staying faithful to the hugely popular anime, Naruto: Uzumaki Chronicles2 boasts a completely new original adventure, plus co-op gameplay, character customization options, and multiple playable characters switch-able on the fly including Naruto, Shikamaru, Rock Lee, Kakashi, Guy, Neji, Choji, and more.  In addition to 2-player Vs Battle gameplay, during normal solo play a second player is able to join in the action for a simultaneous two-player adventure in Co-op mode.  Dazzling lethal attacks and an armoury of specialised ninja weapons are taken straight from the anime with over 30 attack items for kicking ninja ass.  The thrilling gameplay modes include Story, Head-to-Head, Mission, and Survival modes giving aspiring ninjas plenty of kicks and punches to throw.

 Naruto: Uzumaki Chronicles for PlayStation 2 is published by NAMCO BANDAI Games, distributed in Europe by Atari, and scheduled for European release in March 2008.

LYON, FRANCE – 19 October 2007 –

Atari today announced the launch of NAMCO BANDAI Games’ Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 2. Based on the hit Naruto anime TV series which continues to grow in popularity around the globe, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 2 delivers a knock out Ninja punch for all fans of fighting games. Published by NAMCO BANDAI Games and distributed in Europe by Atari, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 2 for PlayStation®2 is available now at retailers across Europe.

Taking the experience to new heights of excellence, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 2 lets players choose from over 30 playable characters from the hit TV show including Naruto, Sasuke, Kakashi and more, play through over 60 thrilling missions, take on a series of challenging mini-games, and test their skills with head-to-head combat on 16 unique battle stages. The Ultimate Road story mode takes players through key plots from the TV show to ultimately unlock a brand new original storyline, while Vs mode lets players do battle with the computer or go head-to-head with their friends to see who has what it takes to be the ultimate ninja.

Bringing a new level of depth to the gameplay, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 2 introduces RPG elements to the series for the first time, with a system of character upgrades which lets players earn points to enhance strength, defence, chakra, agility and even special abilities to give them the edge over their opponents in battle. Players can unleash their chakra to perform multi-level super attacks capable of laying waste to even the most deadly of enemies.

With tons of unlockable features including characters, movies, music and more, a dazzling array of gameplay modes, and an authentic Naruto experience with moves, story and original Japanese voiceover straight from the TV series, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 2 packs a devastating punch for fans of the franchise and anyone looking for a damn good punch-up on PS®2.

Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 2 for PlayStation 2 is available now across Europe.