* Dedicated Gaming Kiosks Developed by Xbox(R) and Terminal Reality at
the Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep(R) Exhibits
* Virtually Race the New Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, Dodge Magnum and
Chrysler 300C
* Three New Online Games Developed by WildTangent to launch via the
Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep Web sites
DETROIT and AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Jan. 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Visitors
attending the 2004 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) will not
only be able to see all of the new vehicles introduced by the Chrysler Group
this week, they will have a chance to get behind the wheel and drive them in a
virtual race to the finish line.
"Jeep(R) Trail Rated 4x4: The Unlimited Challenge," "Project Gotham Racing
Two: Dodge Magnum Edition" and "Project Gotham Racing Two: Chrysler 300
Edition" were created especially for the 2004 Detroit show and features the
all-new 2004 1/2 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, 2005 Dodge Magnum and the 2005
Chrysler 300C.
Dedicated video game kiosks set up in the Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep
exhibits allow consumers to race the new vehicles against other opponents
along a fast-paced track complete with hairpin turns and scenic views. The
games, which can also be seen by onlookers via large screens placed in the
exhibit areas, were developed in partnership with Xbox(R) and Terminal
Reality.
"Visitors to the auto show will be able to see the vehicles on display and
then have an opportunity to take them for a thrilling ride in a race against
other game players," said Julie Roehm, Director-Marketing Communications,
Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge. "Consumers will be able to virtually test-out each of
the vehicles before they hit the dealer's showrooms."
The games kick-off at the Black Tie Charity Preview for the 2004 NAIAS
tonight at Cobo Center. Following their "virtual test drive," participants
will be given CD-ROMs that hold a variety of Chrysler Group games, computer
wallpapers and screensavers, photos and more.
Want To Race Again?
Online game publisher WildTangent has also created three online racing
games, which can be accessed on the Chrysler.com , Jeep.com and Dodge.com Web
sites starting in mid-January. The games, "Jeep 4x4 Adventure," "Chrysler
West Coast Rally" and "Dodge Racing - HEMI(R) Edition" feature next generation
graphics and leading-edge streaming capabilities enabling players to
experience a racing-like quality on their PCs that is similar to actual gaming
consoles.
"The online games are fun and present a sense of realism rarely found with
an Internet experience," said Alex St. John, CEO of WildTangent. "By using
our new Web Driver 4.0, we were able to recreate the true design
characteristics of the Chrysler Group cars, trucks and SUVs. Exciting special
effects coupled with scenic backgrounds help to create a deep connection
between the player and the game."
"The vehicles, as well as the scenery, are very realistic, allowing a
true-to-life driving experience," added Roehm.
The games can be played on three different tracks: Coastline, Island
Metro and Outback. To better educate consumers on the vehicle's performance
capabilities, vehicles will perform their best on the track that is ideally
suited to its characteristic. For example, the Jeep Wrangler 4x4 will handle
best on the rugged course of the Outback.
As the race progresses, players accumulate points that they can use to
upgrade their vehicles, such as turning their Chrysler PT Cruiser into the new
convertible model. Points can also be used to add Mopar(R) accessories such
as chrome tubular bumpers and grille.
As new Chrysler Group vehicles are introduced they will be added to the
game. Currently, the games feature the following vehicles:
* Jeep 4x4 Adventure - Wrangler, Wrangler Unlimited, Liberty, Grand
Cherokee;
* Chrysler West Coast Rally - Crossfire, PT Cruiser, Pacifica, 300C;
* Dodge Racing - HEMI Edition - Ram 1500, Ram SRT-10, SRT-4, Durango and
Magnum.
"Gaming is a fun and creative way to increase brand awareness, build brand
loyalty and educate consumers on vehicle attributes," said Roehm. "As we move
forward with the launch of nine new products into the marketplace, gaming not
only helps to generate excitement, it also amplifies customer anticipation.
Video games are created in partnership with BBDO Detroit.
SOURCE Chrysler Group
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CONTACT:
Dianna Gutierrez, +1-248-512-2921, or David
Barnas, +1-248-512-2670, both of Chrysler Group
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DaimlerChrysler is available on the Internet at:
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