Sunday, March 09, 2008
Silverstar's Empire to Unleash Pipe Mania Puzzle Madness
Silverstar's Empire to Unleash Pipe Mania Puzzle Madness
New Multi-Platform Release of Best Selling Game Announced for 2008
Empire Interactive PLC, an international publisher and developer of interactive entertainment software and a wholly owned subsidiary of Silverstar, announced 2008 will mark the return of the hugely successful puzzle phenomenon, Pipe Mania.
The frenetic, addictive game play of the original will be reborn on a variety of popular platforms, including Nintendo DS and Wii, PSP (PlayStationPortable) system, PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, Xbox LIVE Arcade for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, and PC.
The original version of Pipe Mania was published by Empire Interactive in 1989, with Pipe Dream released in the U.S. in 1991. It ranks as one of the most popular and ported puzzle games of all time. The title has achieved phenomenal sales of more than 4 million units worldwide, making it one the most successful puzzle games ever launched.
The simplicity of Pipe Mania makes it accessible to all ages. The player must lay down a pre-ordained set of pipes on a tiled grid in order to keep the constantly flowing Flooze moving for as long as possible without it spilling out. The game requires quick thinking, hand-eye co-ordination, forward thinking and keen spatial awareness.
This new version builds on the infectious playability of the original and adds expanded game modes, new themes, new play mechanics, and new pieces to challenge players of all skills and ages.
“We are very excited to bring back Pipe Mania,” said Ian Higgins, CEO of Empire Interactive. “Releasing this hugely popular puzzle title across these many formats will give gamers of all ages, particularly the newest generation, the opportunity to enjoy this exciting puzzle sensation.”
Clive Kabatznik, CEO of Silverstar holdings, stated, “The announcement of Pipe Mania sees us revisit one of Empire’s biggest brands. It’s difficult to put this one down and that makes it perfect for a broad demographic and a multitude of formats. We really keen to extend the reach of one of our most successful IPs.”