Press release
Microsoft Game Studios and 4Kids Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: KDE) today celebrate the introduction of "Viva Piñata," a high-energy, mass-appeal entertainment property created by Rare Ltd. that brings a vibrant world of living piñata animals to video games, television and beyond. The "Viva Piñata" universe showcases an engaging cast of colorful, wild-roaming piñata animals that entertain and challenge imaginations.
"Viva Piñata" will offer a number of entertainment elements enjoyable for everyone — from kids to adults. The "Viva Piñata" world will include a Saturday morning 3-D animated television series, slated to premiere this fall on 4Kids TVTM on FOX, that is produced and created by 4Kids Entertainment, known for such powerhouse properties as Yu-Gi-Oh!, Pokémon, Cabbage Patch Kids and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. An immersive video game developed by Rare Ltd. exclusively for the Xbox 360TM video game and entertainment system is scheduled to debut this holiday worldwide, enabling gamers to create and customize piñata-filled adventures in their own evolving world. The 4Kids Entertainment licensing program will result in additional licensed products launching in 2007.
"With 'Viva Piñata,' we are introducing a revolutionary brand that will entertain, inspire and excite children, families and creative minds around the globe," said Peter Moore, corporate vice president of the Interactive Entertainment Business at Microsoft Corp. "With Rare and 4Kids Entertainment we will best showcase the vibrant world of 'Viva Piñata,' enabling a mass audience to have an immersive experience via the animated television series, the Xbox 360 title and related merchandise."
