Press Release: Konami's renowned Castlevania series to make its debut on Nintendo DS system

Konami of Europe today unveiled a new Castlevania game for the Nintendo DS^TM. Set in the year 2036, the newest title in the series continues the storyline that first emerged in the critically acclaimed Castlevania®: Aria of Sorrow^TM for the Nintendo Game Boy Advance^TM. While the new 2D side scrolling action game will contain all the classic gameplay that fans of the series have come to expect, Castlevania for Nintendo DS (working title) will also incorporate innovative gameplay elements that take full advantage of the portable system's powerful new technology.

"The game's rich storyline and strong characters coupled with the adoption of the new technology in the Nintendo DS has allowed us to bring the series to a whole new level" says Hans-Joachim Amann, Head of Product Management of Konami of Europe. "By utilising the Nintendo DS' sophisticated capabilities such as the Dual Screen functionality and Touch Screen technology, we are able to bring a fresh new dimension to this title and provide a truly unique gameplay experience for the gamer."

Taking place a year after Aria of Sorrow, the game's protagonist – Soma Cruz – finds himself at the center of a mysterious cult's plan to resurrect their evil lord and master, Dracula. In order to save himself and protect the lives of those he loves, Soma Cruz must infiltrate the enemy's home base, a towering replica of Dracula's castle that is teaming with monstrous creatures. Players' abilities grow and develop as they collect items and gather experience points by defeating enemies.

In their quest to defeat enemies, players will utilize completely original gameplay concepts that leverage the Nintendo DS' Touch Screen technology. One example of this new technology is Castlevania for Nintendo DS' "Magic Seal" system. By using the stylus directly on the screen, players must connect a series of symbols in the proper order to unlock an enchanted opening and disperse their enemy's magic into it when they are weakened.

Also aiding them in their battle against dark forces is the ability to collect the souls of their enemies to gain powerful new attacks and skills. The new Castlevania for Nintendo DS takes advantage of the Nintendo DS' Wireless Connection, letting players exchange and/or trade acquired souls to enhance their characters' strength. An incredibly moving musical score, visually stunning graphics and imaginative special effects round out this uniquely innovative gaming experience.

Created by Koji Igarashi and the creative team behind the critically acclaimed classic Castellanies: Aria of Sorrow, the new Castlevania for Nintendo DS is scheduled for release in Europe in Autumn, 2005.

About KONAMI CORPORATION
Konami Corporation is a leading developer, publisher and manufacturer of electronic entertainment properties, specializing in the home video game market. Konami Corporation's action and adventure titles include the popular franchises Metal Gear Solid, Silent Hill and Castellanies, among other top sellers. The latest information about Konami can be found on the Web at www.konami.com. Konami Corporation is a publicly traded company based in Tokyo, Japan with subsidiary offices, Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. in the US and Konami of Europe in Frankfurt, Germany. Konami Corporation, the parent company of Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. is traded in the United States on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol KNM. Details of the products published by Konami of Europe can be found at www.konami-europe.com/gs

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