Press release: 1996-05-16: Tempest X tm spins its way to the next generation gaming systems

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: Interplay website (archived)

May 16, 1996

Tempest X tm spins its way to the next generation gaming systems

Irvine, CA -- Interplay Productions announced today that the single most popular arcade game of all time will be coming to the Sony PlayStation tmand SEGA Saturn tm systems. Tempest X tm will be a brand-new updated 3D version of Tempest, a mega-hit when it was originally released; this new spin on the classic adds an organic feel to the web, making it come alive during gameplay. The web is constantly moving, morphing and making gameplay challenging.

Tempest X features dazzling visual effects and 3D creatures that will capture the attention of gamers. Highly detailed graphics and morphing techniques combined with undulating texture patterns create a visually stunning game. The target display allows the highest frame rate possible for this futuristic shooter.

"Tempest X is the new evolution of the single most popular arcade game of all time," said Karen Schohan, director of console marketing for Interplay. "This updated version will have gamers tied to their console systems."

This updated version will have all-new weapons, including lasers which create more elaborate explosions than ever before. The powerful three-level super zapper explodes, freezes or bites enemies. "Jumps" will allow the player to jump above the web to fire shots.

The game is based on a fairly simple concept. As the player, you play a creature at one end of an extruded two-dimensional shape-and you do not want the other creatures on the far end of the web to rise up to your end and kill you. The goal is to shoot at the creatures and kill them before they shoot and kill you.

"If you liked the all-time popular arcade hit, you will love the updated 32-bit version," said Rob Pardo, producer for Interplay. "Tempest X will recreate the thrill of playing the original all-time favorite but adds more stunning graphics and new 3D enemies."

Founded in 1983, Interplay Productions is a company dedicated to manufacturing and distributing a wide range of award-winning entertainment and educational software designed by gamers, for gamers. Interplay releases products through its Interplay, MacPlay, VR Sports and Shiny Entertainment divisions and its affiliated labels for personal computers as well as leading console game platforms. In addition, the company's OEM division represents a wide variety of publishers software to the OEM community for hardware bundling. More comprehensive information on Interplay and its products is available through the company's worldwide web site at http://www.interplay.com.