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Microsoft
To acquire Access Software
Microsoft Corp. today announced its intent to acquire Access
Software Inc., the leading developer and publisher of PC golf games. A
15-year-old franchise, Access' "Links" series, which includes the
recently released "Links LS '99," has been the best-selling PC golf
line in both units and dollars since 1992. "We are excited to be reuniting the Microsoft and Access
Software team that created the original Microsoft® 'Golf' franchise," said
Ed Fries, general manager of the Microsoft Games Group. "Its top-flight
management and development talent will be a true asset to us. We share a vision
to create games that are accessible, fun to play and vastly rich in
content." Microsoft plans to continue publishing the Microsoft
"Golf" series to round out the company's golf offerings. The Microsoft
"Golf" line will provide consumers with a value-priced PC golf game,
while "Links" would occupy the premium position for the customer of
golf-simulation games. Under the terms of the pending acquisition, Microsoft would
acquire the entire "Links" library, including "Links LS,"
"Links Extreme," the "Phoenix of Japan" add-on course, the
"U.S. Open at Pinehurst" and the Five-Course Libraries, volumes 1-4.
In addition, Microsoft would acquire the "Tex Murphy" adventure
series. Microsoft plans to have Access continue to develop titles in
its Salt Lake City office. Bruce Carver, president, founder and CEO of Access
Software, would join Microsoft and assume the responsibility of preserving and
expanding the "Links" franchise by continuing to focus on product
development. "The acquisition provides a great opportunity for Access
Software," Carver said. "Our development team would remain in Salt
Lake City, allowing us to continue our focus on producing great PC golf games
while benefiting from Microsoft's global marketing and distribution
resources." Currently under development at Access is "Links
Extreme," a game that offers "golf with attitude," including
features such as "Deathmatch Golf" and "Demolition Driving
Range." "Links Extreme" is intended to be the first game to be
co-branded under the Access and Microsoft name. Copyright (C)
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