"The buzz around Ikaruga precedes it and we are thrilled to be importing this Japanese arcade hit to America for Nintendo GameCube," said Nancy MacIntyre, Vice President of Marketing for Infogrames' Beverly studio. "Stunning graphics and intense gameplay make for a powerful sensory experience and fans of Ikaruga will agree that this is the best space battle ever."

Ikaruga was originally developed for Sega DreamCast by Treasure - a highly respected developer of console action games - and has become one of the most beloved of all shooter titles. Those already familiar with Ikaruga will appreciate vital game upgrades such as enhanced graphics, a new demo mode that clues players in to the "perfect" round and private passwords that lets high scorers post their accomplishments on the official Ikaruga Web site and establish bragging rights within the worldwide Ikaruga community!

Ikaruga is a comprehensive, scrolling space shooter (with options for either a vertical or horizontal display) set in 2D, against a rich 3D backdrop. The game is an ideal combination of rich Japanese storytelling and high-powered, fighter pilot heroics. Players take the role of our hero, Shinra, the lone survivor of a freedom federation that was massacred by the evil, power-hungry conqueror Tenro Horai. Now Shinra, in his newly-built ship, the Ikaruga, must fight for an aging, exiled people who are depending upon him for their survival. Join the sole warrior as he battles the evil Horai in the hopes of restoring peace.

"Treasure truly does make inventive use of its unique game system, providing one of the most intense shooting experiences we've ever had...(and) the best looking shooter ever created." IGN

For more information, please visit Infogrames or the Ikaruga web site .