Ubisoft, one of the world's largest videogame publishers, announced its next submarine simulation, Silent Hunter III, for PC launching late 2004 – pricing and ESRB rating will be announced at a later date.

The next title in the Silent Hunter franchise will add new dimensions to the simulation experience. The player will engage in a compelling ocean environment, featuring dynamic weather, and experience the intensity of historical naval warfare. Taking the role of the U-boat commander, players will seek their enemy with sonar and periscope, attack the enemy with torpedoes, destroy them with the deck gun, or command their crew to do the job. The all-new 3D engine features impressively detailed U-boat models, both externally and internally, with exact replica WWII technology.

"Silent Hunter III will go beyond current naval simulations and offer a brand-new dimension: a U-boat captain simulator," said Florin Boitor, producer in Ubisoft Studios. "From detailed crew assignment to essential decisions in combat to career evolution, everything will be in the player's control."

In fact, the game reaches even further and recreates a WWII movie atmosphere with cinematic cameras focusing on the most crucial events around the player. Whether they are stalking Destroyers or hiding from depth charges, players will experience the game as their own personal war story. Also available will be a robust multiplayer mode that includes cooperative and best of the pack game modes.

"The Silent Hunter series has a legacy of award-winning titles and Silent Hunter III will continue in that tradition," said Tony Kee, vice president of marketing, Ubisoft. "The innovative crew management system, spectacular environmental effects, and high realism will set the simulation standard for years to come."