After the kids have finished their first week back at school - and their homework - parents can reward them with Animal Paradise’s stable of adorably friendly animals to care for and play with on their DS. Graced with the endearingly comical “big-nose” style of animal photography, from famed Japanese photographer Yoneo Morita, Animal Paradise promises to warm hearts and keep children entertained for hours. Under Empire Interactive’s recent partnership with Atari, Inc., Animal Paradise’s release will mark the first of four announced titles to be distributed exclusively by Atari in North America.

“We know players want pet simulation games with a variety of animals to choose from, and Animal Paradise delivers just that with loads of adorable animals, engaging gameplay and appeal for children and animal lovers of all ages,” said Karim Farghaly, vice president of sales, Empire Interactive. “We think this is a perfect title to kick off our distribution deal with Atari and another step forward in establishing Empire as a major player in the US gaming market.”

Animal Paradise takes players to a virtual farm where they can try their hand at caring for and raising 18 different animals including dogs, cats, hamsters, horses, pigs and more. Pets will need to be fed, cleaned, walked and played with in order to make sure they stay fit, healthy and happy. As they progress through the game, players will unlock new animals to care for and fun-filled mini-games like Treasure Hunting, Footprint Trail and Shampoo Scrub. Getting to know the animals, learning what kind of care each one prefers, and building a bond with them will be rewarded by unlocking exclusive pet photos for your virtual album. No other game this fall will entertain kids while teaching them how to be responsible caretakers like Animal Paradise.

Animal Paradise, rated of “E” for “everyone, ships to North American retail stores on September 23, 2008