High-Voltage entertainment planned at Middle East PlayStation Experience at GITEX Shopper 2003

Forming the core of the mega-gaming exposition, which will take place alongside the GITEX Shopper at the Airport Expo, from the 18th to the 24th of October, are the eleven genre-based thematic gaming zones that are being created. These include a `Cartoon Area' featuring games like Finding Nemo; a 'Throttle Zone' for those interested in simulated racing; a 'Quest Zone' with games like Prince of Persia and a `Stadium Zone' for sports game lovers offering virtual football with FIFA 2004.

To further build on the high-voltage excitement of the event, each thematic zone will be supported by live performances and acts, based on the games that feature in each zone. These include musical performances and acts by leading troupes from the UAE and abroad, based on popular movie themes like Charlie's Angels, James Bond and Harry Potter.

Mr Yasuhide Yokota, Managing Director, Sony Gulf FZE, the organisers of the event said that the Middle East PlayStation Experience formed part of an industry-level initiative by Sony PlayStation to bring gaming to the masses.

"One of our key objectives in the region is to reach out to a wider, more mainstream audience, by focusing on the sociability and simplicity of PlayStation, and that gaming can be an open accessible activity to be enjoyed by everyone."

"Offering an unmatched entertainment experience has been at the core of the Sony PlayStation value proposition. The diverse range of non-gaming related entertainment capsules that will be staged at the Middle PlayStation Experience is in keeping with this positioning," he added.

Other features include a miniature, purpose-built stadium within the Stadium Gaming Zone. Here football and basket ball fans can take a break from playing NBA Jam and the latest FIFA 2004 game, and try their hand at their favourite sport, while being entertained by professional performers displaying various tricks and conducting on the spot competitions.

The Middle East PlayStation Experience will be further ignited by a popular DJ who will play the latest mixes. Three MCs located at strategic areas at the venue will inspire visitors to let go of their inhibitions and derive the maximum from the Middle East PlayStation Experience.

"The Middle East PlayStation Experience is one of Sony's most ambitious initiatives in the region, representing a considerable amount of investment and weeks of meticulous planning. We are certain that our efforts will translate into a powerful gaming event for all consumers to participate in and enjoy" added Mr. Yokota.

Covering a massive area of over 2700 sq. meters, the Middle East PlayStation Experience will be the attraction-point of GITEX Computer Shopper 2003. With around 200 PlayStation consoles loaded with the latest software titles, the arena will bring to life the spirit of software and enhance the gaming experience.

Consumers will also have the opportunity to try out various software titles, while exclusively previewing over 40 gaming titles currently under development.