Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS), the world’s leading independent video game publisher is again partnering with urban music and lifestyle powerhouse Def Jam to bring gamers Def Jam VENDETTA(tm) II (working title), the ultimate hip-hop-fueled fighting video game. Currently in development under the EA GAMES(tm) brand, Def Jam VENDETTA II features more than 70 characters, including more than 35 of the most well-known artists and personalities in hip-hop today, including Busta Rhymes, Carmen Electra, Lil’ Kim, Ludacris, Method Man, Redman, Sean Paul, Slick Rick, Snoop Dogg, and many more.

Def Jam VENDETTA II challenges players to step into the shoes of a ruthless NYC street fighter battling for control of the hip-hop underground. The game features an all-new fighting engine allowing gamers to customize multiple fighting styles as the deep new story mode takes the action well beyond the ring and into the streets.

"As the line between games and traditional forms of entertainment continues to blur, EA will continue to partner with strong brands like Def Jam to redefine the rules with innovative new titles like Def Jam VENDETTA II," said Jeff Karp, Vice President of Marketing for EA.

"The Def Jam-EA relationship is once again on the forefront of industry-leading entertainment with Def Jam VENDETTA II," added Kevin Liles, President and CEO, Def Jam. "By fusing hip-hop culture with innovative, addictive gameplay, Def Jam VENDETTA II is the ultimate interactive hip hop lifestyle product. It redefines the gaming experience."

Def Jam VENDETTA II will be published and distributed by EA for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, Xbox video game system from Microsoft, and Nintendo GameCube. The game is being developed by EA Canada in conjunction with Japan-based AKI Corporation for a scheduled ship in fall 2004. This game has not yet been rated by the ESRB.