The world's two foremost video game developers, Nintendo and Electronic Arts, today announced a collaboration on games that will include exclusive features for connected play between the Nintendo GameCube console and the portable Game Boy Advance system. The creative effort will be led by EA, with Nintendo's legendary game producer, Shigeru Miyamoto, providing input on technical game play elements.

The first three EA titles to support connectivity between the two systems will be FIFA 2004, Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 2004 and Madden NFL 2004. FIFA 2004 will be available on both systems when the game launches in Europe this autumn and Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 2004 is scheduled for launch in October. Madden NFL 2004 will launch on the Nintendo GameCube and Game Boy Advance simultaneously in August. Over the next 12 months, EA plans to introduce approximately 20 Nintendo GameCube titles from their EA SPORTS, EA GAMES, and EA SPORTS BIG brands. Some of the additional Nintendo GameCube titles are also expected to support connectivity with Game Boy Advance.

A Game Boy Advance can be connected to the Nintendo GameCube system using a cable that links the two systems. Connectivity, depending on each software design, can allow users to exchange various forms of data, unlock new game levels, or use the Game Boy Advance as a supplemental game screen or controller.

"NINTENDO GAMECUBE and Game Boy Advance link up to bring gamers enhanced gameplay, and allows developers to stretch their creativity in unique and original ways." says David Gosen, Managing Director, Nintendo of Europe. "This alliance with EA will build this connectivity into some of the world's most popular entertainment franchises and demonstrates EA's commitment to Nintendo."

"This agreement means that three of the world's most popular sports games - FIFA soccer, Tiger Woods PGA TOUR golf, and Madden NFL football - are going to include a new way to play, and new way to compete on Nintendo systems," said EA Senior Vice President and General Manager for Europe, Gerhard Florin.