DOAXBV Sweeps Japan
Posted by Bagel on Thursday, February 13 2003

LONDON, 7th February 2003 - Gamers in Japan are coming down with a severe case of Dead or Alive Xtreme Beach Volleyball fever, caused by the unique new game of the same name, available exclusively for the Xbox video game system from Microsoft. Symptoms include queuing around the block to get a copy, record-breaking sales, and a desire to escape to idyllic Zack's Island during every waking moment.

Dead or Alive Xtreme Beach Volleyball became the best-selling Xbox title ever in Japan after only two days on sale. The game shot straight to number two in the Japanese all-format game charts in its first week of release. The gamer's Mecca in Tokyo, the Akihabara district, saw long lines of gamers queuing up to be among the first to experience this unique title. Many took time off from work to ensure their place in the queue.

Dead or Alive Xtreme Beach Volleyball mania has also spread to North America, where similar mob scenes appeared at retail stores across the country. On the TECMO user forum web site, a gamer called "kzkb1" wrote:

I never saw the point of reserving games. Don't ask me why, I just didn't think it was ever necessary. So I was at work all day the day that DOAX came out. I left at around 6:00 and stopped by my local Gamestop. It was one of the saddest days of my life. No more DOAX. I almost cried...Well, I've learned my lesson: RESERVE, RESERVE, RESERVE!!!!!

Dead or Alive Xtreme Beach Volleyball hits Europe in Q1 2003 (published by TECMO/Microsoft), and gamers are expected to display similar symptoms as those seen in Japan and North America. "This must be one of the most-anticipated games on the way for Xbox," said Michel Cassius, Director of Xbox Platform, EMEA. "TECMO have created a new kind of game, mixing elements of other genres to create a unique whole. The graphics are some of the most detailed ever seen on any platform, and the overall experience is of a holiday in a beautiful tropical island - just the treatment for the winter blues. Based on response already from European gamers, we're expecting a similar reaction as has been seen in Japan."

"We are very pleased with the performance of Dead or Alive Xtreme Beach Volleyball in Japan and in the North America," said Mitsuri Tsutsumi, Manager, International Division, TECMO Ltd.. "In Japan, we received many phone calls from gamers who wanted to buy the game, but all stocks had been sold. We're working with retail to ensure a steady stream of copies to satisfy demand. Gamers seem to recognise the uniqueness and fun of this title, and we're looking forward to introducing it to Europe soon."

Developed by TECMO, Dead or Alive Xtreme Beach Volleyball features 7 of the female characters from the long-running Dead or Alive games series, plus 1 new female character, Lisa. Lured to Zack's Island on the premise of competing in yet another fighting tournament, the ladies discover the real competition is going to be beach volleyball. Features include:


The fantastic graphics gamers expect from the Dead or Alive series. Fans of Dead of Alive 3 will appreciate the improved graphic engine for "Dead or Alive Xtreme Beach Volleyball", allowing even more realistic and sophisticated effects. The environments are beautifully rendered, with gameplay set in the morning, afternoon and evening - gamers will be amazed at the realistic lighting effects on this paradise island.


Incredibly intelligent characters. The players in "Dead or Alive Xtreme Beach Volleyball" aren't just good-looking - they hide some advanced AI which means every decision players make has an effect. And be careful which character is paired with who - there are old rivalries at play and gamers might find that co-operation is not the name of the game!


Activity-based gameplay. Gamers will be asked to accomplish activities on the island map as part of their game mission to win the beach volleyball games. They can also compete in Main Mode and Versus Mode to win. The way they play earns money you that can be spent on the island, on presents for the girls or gambled in the island's casino.


Personalised characters. Gamers can personalise their characters in many ways, from choosing new outfits and nail colour to deciding whether or not they want their characters to have a suntan or not, but they need to make their choices wisely - the characters might not like what's bought for them and refuse to wear it.


Amazing audio. The incredible realism of Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound is a big part of the game, as the environmental sound effects and music bring the sounds of the seaside and an exciting sporting event to life.