Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. Further Strengthens Management Structure in Anticipation of Accelerating Computer Entertainment Business

Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. announced today two executive appointments in preparation for long-term business objectives, including the anticipated introduction of the PlayStation® 2 computer entertainment system. Recognized as veterans in both the electronics and software entertainment industries, Jack Tretton and Andrew J. House have assumed the position of senior vice president, effective immediately. Both individuals have been instrumental in the development and continued success of the PlayStation business in North America and will continue their strategic roles on the company's executive management team led by Kazuo (Kaz) Hirai, president and chief operating officer, Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.

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Tretton, a founding member of Sony Computer Entertainment America, and formerly vice president, sales, was one of the individuals responsible for the company's foray into the home console market with the launch of the PlayStation® game console in September 1995. With more than 15 years direct experience in the interactive entertainment industry, Tretton's contributions to the company have been invaluable. His expertise and guidance have aided the organization in legitimizing its position from an industry outsider to market leader in less than five years. Tretton's responsibilities include sales and distribution, retail merchandising, channel marketing and management.

Prior to joining Sony Computer Entertainment America in 1995, Tretton served as general manager for JVC Musical Industries, Inc., where he directed sales and managed product development, marketing, finance and operations activities for the international videogame publisher. Tretton also held the position of vice president of sales for Activision and his background includes various sales management positions with consumer products companies.

A 10-year Sony veteran, House was the individual responsible for the creation and execution of the marketing strategies that transformed and expanded the PlayStation brand into a household name, taking gaming from an elite core target to mass-market audience fan base of 27 million users. As vice president, marketing, House is responsible for all facets of the company's marketing efforts in North America including overall PlayStation brand management, hardware and software marketing, advertising, creative services, public relations, promotions, and online and direct marketing. He is orchestrating the marketing campaign behind what some have cited as the "biggest consumer product launch in history" with the October 26, 2000 release of the PlayStation® 2 computer entertainment system.

In his new role as senior vice president, House also assumes the responsibility for the day-to-day management of Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.'s extensive third party program that includes licensee relations, product planning and strategic relationships.

During his tenure with the company, House worked in corporate public relations for Sony Corporation (Japan) for five years. In April 1995, House was transferred to the marketing and communications division of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc., the parent company for Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. and Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, working with the newly created International Software Division. In this capacity, he was responsible for the marketing and promotion of Sony Computer Entertainment's European and U.S. developed game titles for the Japanese market.

"As we prepare to launch the long-anticipated PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, we understand the importance of further strengthening our management team so that our valued retail and third party partners are supported by seasoned executives that can ensure the broadest continuing support for the platform," said Kaz Hirai, president and chief operating officer, Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. "With their significant contributions at Sony Computer Entertainment America coupled with their strong background in the electronics and software entertainment industries, Jack Tretton and Andrew House's considerable talents will certainly contribute to the company's continued innovation and leadership."

In addition to these new appointments, Phil Harrison will leave the North American operation to assume a new position at its sister division, Sony Computer Entertainment Europe. In his new role of senior vice president, development, Harrison will be responsible for all European first party internal and external product development, as well as general format evangelism. Harrison will report to Chris Deering, president, Sony Computer Entertainment Europe.

"We would like to recognize Phil for his overall contribution to the global organization and acknowledge his continued passion for the PlayStation business. With considerable accomplishments in both the product development and research & development arenas, we will miss Phil's knowledge and expertise as he re-joins the management team at Sony Computer Entertainment Europe," added Hirai. "However, we are pleased that Phil is continuing his long-standing tenure with the company and we look forward to working with him in his new capacity."

Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. continues to redefine the entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation® game console and the upcoming PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system. The PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system is set to revolutionize the home entertainment market, offering the most compelling interactive content and the capability to be used as a network terminal in the coming broadband era.

Recognized as the undisputed industry leader, Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. markets the PlayStation game console and develops, publishes, markets and distributes software for the PlayStation game console and the upcoming PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system for the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif., Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. serves as headquarters for all North American operations and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

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SOURCE: Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.

Contact: Molly Smith of Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.,
650-655-6044, or molly_smith@playstation.sony.com

Website: http://www.playstation.com/