35,000 visitors throng Middle East PlayStation Experience in first four days of exposition

Being held alongside the GITEX Computer Shopper at the Airport Expo, the Middle East PlayStation Experience, which commenced on October 18, will last till October 24.

Mr. Yasuhide Yokota, Managing Director, Sony Gulf FZE, the organizer of the event, said that the high visitor turnout at the Middle East PlayStation Experience was indicative of the growing consumer interest in gaming across the Middle East.

"While Sony PlayStation has enjoyed massive growth in the region since its launch a few years ago, the overriding rationale behind organizing the first ever PlayStation Experience in the Middle East, was to reach a wider, more mainstream consumer audience."

Covering 2700 sq. meters, the Middle East PlayStation Experience features over 200 PlayStation consoles loaded with the latest software titles, providing enthusiasts with an opportunity to experience a wide genre of games under one roof.

Visitors to the Middle East PlayStation Experience also have the opportunity to try out various software including exclusive previews of games under development, several of which are scheduled for release during the course of the year and beyond.

Mr. Tim Stokes, Sales & Marketing Manager, Distributor Markets, Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) said that one of the most popular games at the exhibition was the latest addition to the EyeToy family of interactive games - EyeToy: Groove.

"The launch of the path-breaking EyeToy: Play earlier this year, has redefined the gaming experience by placing the player directly into the game. Also, it does not feature a controller or joy-stick, making it an ideal game for families and friends alike. EyeToy: Groove, which is the second title that uses the EyeToy technology, is being previewed at the Middle East PlayStation Experience for the benefit of consumers in the region."

EyeToy: Groove, which releases in November 2003, utilizes the PlayStation®2's exclusive EyeToy technology, and gives everyone a chance to fulfill their dreams of being able to dance live on a screen. By linking the EyeToy USB camera to a PlayStation 2 the player(s) will feature live on their TV screen enabling them to dance along with the on screen prompts.