FINAL FANTASY®XI, THE LATEST INSTALLMENT OF THE WORLD-RENOWNED SERIES, GOES ONLINE FOR PLAYSTATION®2 IN NORTH AMERICA
Online Only Title Allows Gamers to Live in a Truly Persistent World, with Cross-Platform Play Between Console and Personal Computer

LOS ANGELES, May 13, 2003 – Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. announced today information about FINAL FANTASY®XI, the highly anticipated new installment to the world-renowned FINAL FANTASY® series, available on PlayStation platforms since 1997. Developed by Square Enix Co., Ltd. and published by Sony Computer Entertainment America, FINAL FANTASY XI, the first online title in the series, is a cross-platform, cross-continent massively multiplayer online role playing game (MMORPG), which allows gamers to connect to the same exact world regardless of whether they are playing on a PlayStation®2 or a personal computer (PC). FINAL FANTASY XI showcases the same award-winning visual content, innovative gameplay and deep storyline that has made the FINAL FANTASY series one of the most popular videogame series in the world, with more than 44 million units sold to date.

FINAL FANTASY XI utilizes the Network Adaptor (Ethernet/modem)(for PlayStation 2) and the upcoming internal hard disk drive (40GB)(for PlayStation 2) to allow players to connect online, either via broadband or dial-up connection, and join in a truly "persistent world" that keeps evolving, growing and developing, even when gamers are not playing. Players can create their alter ego that will exist in the world of "Vana'diel," and be able to customize characters by race, sex, country of origin, and numerous physical traits. In FINAL FANTASY XI, players will become immersed in an expansive, original storyline as they go on missions and build up their character's skills and attributes, either alone or with other members of the community, ultimately creating the history of Vana'diel. "We are excited to bring the FINAL FANTASY series online with PlayStation 2. The deep
gameplay, numerous regions and always evolving worlds make FINAL FANTASY XI one of the largest, most in depth online adventures ever created, " said Ami Blaire, director, product marketing, Sony Computer Entertainment America. "FINAL FANTASY XI will revolutionize console gaming with the ability for gamers to join others on quests and adventures regardless of whether they are playing on a PlayStation 2 or a PC. It is truly a one-of-a-kind experience."

Players will embark on multiple adventures through vast environments in the world of Vana'diel, which has more than 100 areas to explore including mountains, forests, ice plains, deserts, oceans, rivers, castles and dungeons. Incorporating time and climate changes, Vana'diel is truly a persistent world, composed of three unique regions: the Republic of Bastok, known for Industry and Might; The Kingdom of San d'Oria, called "A City Within A Fortress;" and the Federation of Windurst, founded on "The Fruits of Knowledge." These countries enjoyed a friendly relationship on the surface; however, the territorial expansion is a constant desire for all of the countries leaders, and players must chose one of these countries as their home. Once players start their adventure in a rather civilized capital city, they may congregate, chat and do battle with the forces of evil, creating Vana'diel's history through battles and interactions.

With the ability to create unique characters, choosing from a variety of races, facial features, size, hair-styles and attributes, players will be able to play at their own pace and form parties with other players while embarking on multiple adventures. They can also acquire skills in trades such as leatherworking, fishing, jewel crafting and many more that help them on their quests. Various communication tools have been incorporated into FINAL FANTASY XI to assist in interaction between players, including easy-to-use chat and messaging systems. The independent Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) has rated FINAL FANTASY XI "T" for Teen. For more information about the ESRB visit www.esrb.org.