Sony Computer Entertainment America Gives Gamers a Voice with the Development of Gamer Advisory Panel

Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. announced today the unveiling of its Gamer Advisory Panel (GAP), an exclusive panel of thousands of users, designed to enable two-way dialog between its members and PlayStation. By collaborating with these elite gamers, Sony Computer Entertainment America will create a source of enriched gaming insight into the evolving world of gaming that will help improve product offerings and marketing communications. In turn, members of the Gamer Advisory Panel will play a direct role in shaping the future, while receiving member-only privileges.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000510/SFW104-a )

The invitation-only panel is comprised of the most loyal and engaged enthusiasts from the PlayStation Underground™ registered user base who demonstrate an unusual passion for, and skill in, gaming. The PlayStation Underground is a unique relationship-marketing program that allows members to swap stories, offer game advice, share information, and more. This "insider status" gives members exclusive information about PlayStation and gaming, special merchandise, and an opportunity to engage with other passionate gamers via the members-only online community.

"We realize that our most important assets are the PlayStation consumers and loyal fans," said Marilyn Weyant, vice president, loyalty and channel marketing, Sony Computer Entertainment America. "The Gamer Advisory Panel gives us a vehicle to open dialog with our most passionate consumers so we can address their gaming experiences and desires. Our gamers have a voice within the company that will influence the future of PlayStation gaming "

Although Sony Computer Entertainment America received 34 percent more respondents than expected estimates, the initial participants in the Gamer Advisory Panel represent less than one percent of the total U.S. PlayStation customer base. These select and highly engaged gamers have the enthusiasm, expertise and leadership qualities required to impact the future of gaming. For more information on how to qualify for the Gamer Advisory Panel, log onto us.playstation.com.

About Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.

Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. continues to redefine the entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation® and PS one™ game console, and the 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 family of products and develops, publishes, markets and distributes software for the PS one game console and the 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.

Visit us on the Web at http://www.playstation.com/

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SOURCE: Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.

CONTACT: Monica Wik, +1-650-655-5394, or
monica_wik@playstation.sony.com, or Teresa Weaver, +1-650-655-5324, or
teresa_weaver@playstation.sony.com, both of Sony Computer Entertainment
America Inc.

Web site: http://www.playstation.com/