Press release: 1995-12-07: Sega's PICO sweeps 1995 awards

This is an unaltered copy of a press release, for use as a primary source on Sega Retro. Please do not edit the contents below. Language: English Original source: The Free Library

REDWOOD CITY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 7, 1995--Sega of America Thursday announced that PICO, one of the most interactive edutainment products available for 3- to 7-year-olds, has swept 1995 awards for children's products.

PICO and its storyware were awarded this year's Technology & Learning Award of Excellence, recognition as one of Dr. Toy's 100 Best Products and accolades by Child Magazine as one of the year's best computer games. Judged through kids testing, parental review and evaluation by educators, PICO once again stands out as a valuable educational tool.

Sega introduced PICO last year as the industry's first combined hardware/software electronic learning aid (ELA). The only product to combine the power of a PC with the affordability and durability of a preschooler's toy, while offering a wide variety of popular "storyware" titles, PICO instantly captured the attention and loyalty of parents, teachers and critics nationwide.

In 1994, PICO received a Parent's Choice Award and was recognized by the National Association of Parenting Publications (NAPPA), Oppenheim Toy Portfolio and again by Dr. Toy's 100 Best Products.

The key to PICO's interactivity is the "Magic Pen," a jumbo, crayon-like stylus that brings stories to life on the television with a simple touch. Kids can control the page, the game, create their own animation and more. Products such as PICO not only introduce young children to the "ABCs" of education through entertainment, but foster an understanding and appreciation of technology as a tool for learning in a fun, interactive way.

PICO is available nationwide for a suggested retail price of $149. Software ranges from $50 to $60 and includes such popular titles as Disney's "The Lion King" and "Pocahontas," "The Berenstain Bears" and "The Magic Schoolbus."

Sega of America is the arm of Tokyo-based Sega Enterprises Ltd. responsible for the development, marketing and distribution of Sega products in the Americas. Sega Enterprises Ltd. is a nearly $4 billion company known as a leader in interactive digital entertainment media, with operations on five continents.

CONTACT: Sega of America

Angela Edwards, 415/802-3908

or

Manning, Selvage & Lee

Vickie Allande, 213/782-6600, Ext. 245
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