FOSTER CITY, Calif., January 30, 2002 – Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. today announced the release of Drakan: The Ancients’ Gates, the continuation of the popular franchise which originated on the PC. Developed exclusively for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system by Surreal Software Inc., Drakan: The Ancients’ Gates unveils a brand new high-flying adventure for console gamers, reuniting the brave, female warrior, Rynn, and her fearless dragon, Arokh, on an enchanting quest.

An exciting adventure into ancient civilization, Drakan: Order of the Flame introduces Rynn and Arokh as they embark on a mystical quest to defend their Empire from corruption within its core. In Drakan: The Ancients’ Gates, Rynn and Arokh continue their adventures in the ancient decaying world of Drakan, undergoing new experiences with increased abilities, sophisticated gameplay and stunning graphics made possible by the power of PlayStation 2.

"We are excited to bring the popular Drakan franchise to the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system," said Ami Blaire, director, product marketing, Sony Computer Entertainment America, Inc. "With Drakan: The Ancients’ Gates, we are adding a very unique title to the PlayStation 2 library, one that allows players to engage in both ground and aerial combat with a fearless dragon and a brave warrior in beautiful, lush game environments. The release of Drakan: The Ancients’ Gates on PlayStation 2 allows us to appeal to a broad audience including fans of the series and fantasy enthusiasts, continuing to drive the formation of the PlayStation 2 platform."

In Drakan: The Ancients’ Gates, Rynn and Arokh are called upon to save the immortal Spirit Dragons that are being held captive within the dimensional fabric between the gates to the ancient empire. If the gates are reopened, the Spirit Dragons will be set free and the first step towards restoring civilization will have been taken. Rynn and Arokh are eternally linked together by a unique bond – one cannot survive without the other – so they must travel together to distant lands and reactivate four ancient Rune Gates, utilizing magical spells and powerful weapons as they battle a motley assortment of villainous adversaries. Only through Rynn and Arokh’s dedication, tenacity and resourcefulness can the ancient Spirit Dragons be freed, and the salvation of humanity guaranteed.

In Drakan: The Ancients’ Gates, battles alternate between air-based combat, where Rynn and Arokh team up for aerial battle, and hand-to-hand combat with Rynn fighting their enemies on the ground. Players can trade items and skills to boost the abilities of rider and dragon. They can hone their fighting abilities to master more than 80 weapons and become skilled archers, deadly fighters or powerful sorcerers. Drakan: The Ancients’ Gates allows players to adventure through eight unique and beautiful environments including treacherous mountains, murky swamps, barren deserts, lush islands and frigid arctic regions, experiencing miles of diverse landscapes seen from remarkable aerial views enabled by the superior technology of PlayStation 2.

Released: 1/30/2002