Gamers Build Empires with New Zboard(TM)
Age of Empires III Limited Edition Keyset Coming Soon
Antwerp, Belgium (September 8, 2005) - Ideazon Inc. today announced its new Age of Empires® III Limited Edition Keyset for Zboard users.
The new custom keyset is designed specifically for the widely anticipated Microsoft Game Studios title Age of Empires III developed by Ensemble Studios for release in October, 2005.
Ideazon, designer and developer of the ZboardTM, the world's first keyboard designed for PC gamers, has partnered with Microsoft to bring gamers a custom keyset that will enhance the Age of Empires III playing experience. Ideazon's Age of Empires III keyset lets players build their empire and master the game's playing environment using a customized control layout that is simple to learn and use.
"The Age of Empires III Limited Edition Keyset is tailored to meet every player's needs within the stunning new world that Ensemble has created for this game," says Chris Rathgeber, President of Ideazon Inc. "We worked closely with Ensemble Studios to create the ultimate custom keyset and we are thrilled with the results. We think gamers are going to love it."
"This keyset is an exciting enhancement for longtime Age of Empires fans and will help new players master the game more quickly," says Patrick Hudson, Executive Producer at Ensemble Studios. "The entire package, from adoption of the game's visuals to the thoughtfully laid out command keys, adds a dramatic new dimension of action, speed and excitement to the Age of Empires III experience."
The Age of Empires III Limited Edition Keyset for Zboard gives gamers:
- Faster access, movement and response times throughout the Empire via 7 quick access "Find" keys and 11 "Camera keys;"
- 63 uniquely labeled and color-coded keys for ease of use and quick access to units, chatting and more;
- Beautiful game graphics that add a new dimension of realism to the desktop.
The Zboard Gaming Keyboard comes equipped with the following components and features:
- Gaming Keyset for FPS and Action games;
- 15 common shooter and action commands labeled on keys;
- Eight distinct "command zones" for ease of use;
- "Butterfly" directional keys for maximum comfort;
- Instant remapping capabilities;
- Standard Keyset with Windows and Internet Explorer commands labeled on keys;
- USB base with two extra USB peripheral ports.
The Zboard is available now and the Age of Empires III Limited Edition Keyset will be available at major retail and online outlets across Europe. Suggested retail price for the Zboard is 59.99 and for the Age of Empires III Keyset 24.99. Check stores or online at www.zboard.com for ongoing offers.
About Ideazon, Inc.
North American-based Ideazon Inc. develops, manufactures and markets the next generation of gaming peripheral technologies that enable a new level of interaction between end-users and their PC games. ZboardTM products enhance the gaming experience, accelerates gamers through the initial stages of a new game and ultimately improve gamer satisfaction.
Ideazon is headquartered in Vaughan, Ontario, with its European Offices located in Antwerp, Belgium. For more information, visit the web site at www.zboard.com.
About Ensemble Studios
Ensemble Studios (www.ensemblestudios.com) is one of the world's premier entertainment software developers. Ensemble Studios is known for its blockbuster Age of Empires and Age of Mythology game series. Ensemble's titles are distinguished by the highest-quality art and gameplay dynamics applied in familiar historical settings, and appeal to hard-core gamers and mass audiences. Ensemble Studios is based in Dallas, Texas.
About Microsoft Game Studios
Microsoft Game Studios is a leading worldwide publisher and developer of games for the Xbox® video game system, the Windows® operating system and online platforms. Comprising a network of top developers, Microsoft Game Studios is committed to creating innovative and diverse games for Windows (www.microsoft.com/games), including such franchises as Age of Empires®, Flight Simulator and Zoo Tycoon®; Xbox (www.xbox.com), including such games as Fable® and franchises such as Halo®, Project Gotham Racing® and MechAssault®; and MSN® Games (www.games.msn.com), the official games channel for the MSN network and home to such hits as "Bejeweled" and "HexicTM."
For additional information contact:
EUROPE
Sylvie Corbett
European Marketing Manager
sylvie.corbett@ideazon.com
Tel: +32 3 444.05.87
North America
Jennifer Wasley
Porter Novelli Canada
Tel: (416) 422-7189
jennifer.wasley@porternovelli.com
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