"Adding fun and fast paced multiplayer to Civ III® is a major step for the franchise," said Sid Meier, co-founder of FIRAXIS Games. "Play The World will give our growing fanbase some of the most innovative multiplayer options ever found in a turn-based game, and a chance to test their mettle by competing against or cooperating with the ultimate AI - the intelligent strategies of Civ® players from around the globe."

Sid Meier's Civilization III: Play The World expansion pack includes three different Internet and LAN multiplayer modes: Turn-based, Simultaneous, and for the first time in a Civilization game, a Turnless Mode. Civilization game fans can now face off in more intense, fast-paced games like Elimination, Regicide and Capture the Flag or play a more traditional Civilization-style game. The expansion also supports "Play by Email" and Hotseat games and includes multiplayer scenario support.

The Play the World title also expands the Civilization game experience by adding eight new civilizations, each with its own Great Leader and unique unit. It strengthens the game's strategic options with map features like airfields, outposts, and radar towers. The new pack also streamlines gameplay with interface enhancements for tasks like espionage and auto- bombardment. As well, its scenario editor, complete with specialty units and two new terrain sets, empowers players to create scenarios from any time period.

Sid Meier's Civilization III: Play The World follows last week's release of Infogrames' Sid Meier's Civilization® III: Game of the Year Edition. This new version of the Sid Meier's Civilization III core game includes the "Making of Civilization III" video, a keyboard reference card, and other content designed to give players enhanced Civilization game enjoyment. When the Civilization III game is combined with the Sid Meier's Civilization III: Play The World expansion pack, players get the ultimate Civilization III game experience.

Sid Meier's Civilization III: Play The World game for Windows PC was developed by FIRAXIS Games, is rated "E" for Everyone and carries an approximate retail price of $29.95. Sid Meier's Civilization III: Game of the Year Edition is rated "E" for Everyone and carries an approximate retail price of $39.95. Additional information on the Sid Meier's Civilization III game and the Play The World expansion may be obtained on the official site.