Namco Networks Announces Launch of Arcade Classic Popeye on Mobile

SAN JOSE, Calif. (Oct. 18, 2007) -- (From E for All, Los Angeles Oct. 18-21) - Celebrating today's first-time launch of Popeye on mobile phones, Namco Networks, a leading publisher and developer of mobile games and entertainment for mass-market consumers, and Sprint (NYSE: S), the industry leader in innovative wireless entertainment services, announced a sweepstakes to promote Namco Networks' latest mobile game to consumers nationwide.

"As a well-known brand seen in everything from DVDs, comics, merchandise, and even theme park attractions, Popeye is a character that appeals to all ages," said Scott Rubin, vice president of sales and marketing for Namco Networks. "By coupling this evergreen brand and character with addictive game play, we are bringing a fun and entertaining mobile game to a mass-market audience based on a property and storyline that everyone knows and loves."

In celebration of the nationwide premiere of Popeye on wireless phones, Namco will be hosting a Popeye sweepstakes from Oct. 16 through Nov. 30 on Sprint. Fans of Popeye and other Namco mobile games can enter for a chance to win the grand prize. 75 winners will win the authorized edition DVD four-disc set, Popeye The Sailor: 1933-1938 Volume 1, distributed by Warner Home Video.

Sprint customers can enter the sweepstakes by accessing the game's home page on the Sprint wireless Web or by texting the word 'popeye' to 26262 on a Sprint phone (standard text and data rates apply). Customers can check out the game and submit their phone number to gain an entry into the sweepstakes. Visit www.namcogames.com/popeyesweeps for the official rules and an alternate method of entry.

Capturing the spirit of the classic '80s arcade hit, Popeye lets players relive his perennial quest to win back his sweetie, Olive Oyl, while overcoming the antics of his rival, Bluto. Players help Popeye win her back by collecting Olive's love tokens in this mobile-optimized update to the popular arcade classic. Collect the hearts, musical notes and cries of "H-E-L-P" that a captured Olive tosses down to collect bonus points, while avoiding the Sea Hag's thrown bottles, Bluto's punches and other dangers. True to the comic and cartoon series, Popeye is "strong to the finich" if he eats his spinach, temporarily gaining the strength to go after Bluto and knock him off the screen.

Popeye on mobile includes both the original arcade version of the game as well as an enhanced mode with bonus game play. Building on the action in the arcade mode, the enhanced mode features fresh new graphics, two brand new rounds ("A Dream Walking" round and "Spinach Run" bonus round), and additional characters, including cameos by Eugene the Jeep and Bernice the Whiffle Hen. Points earned throughout the game can be redeemed for downloadable Popeye comics on mobile phones.*

"In its inaugural year, E for All is open to consumers of all ages looking for the latest and greatest entertainment and games," said Mary Dolaher, CEO of IDG World Expo, the owner of E for All. "The launch of Popeye at the show brings more awareness to the mobile platform as an entertainment device, and is a reflection of Namco Networks' commitment to mobile entertainment for everyone. We are very much looking forward to having Namco Networks at E for All this week."

Attendees at E for All, the event for people with a passion for video games and interactive entertainment, can preview Popeye on Sprint phones at Namco Networks' booth (#913).

*Available on most handsets. Standard data charges apply.

About Namco Networks

Since 2002, Namco Networks America Inc., a subsidiary of Namco Bandai Holdings (USA) Inc. and a worldwide leader in the high-tech entertainment industry, has used cutting-edge technology to provide fun, quality entertainment to mobile consumers throughout the Americas. For more information about Namco mobile games, please visit: www.namcogames.com.