FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

"THE RIFT" CHOSEN AS FIRST ROUND WINNER IN 2nd ANNUAL INDEPENDENT GAMES FESTIVAL; DEMO AVAILABLE FEBRUARY 9, 2000

SEATTLE, WA, January 17, 2000 - The 2nd Annual Independent Games Festival (http://www.indiegames.com) first round winners have been chosen, and among them is ThrushWave Technology's upcoming 3D real-time strategy PC game, "The Rift".

ThrushWave is pushing the edge of the real-time strategy envelope with "The Rift", which takes the popular genre into outer space, with fast-paced action and stellar graphics, creating an entirely unique new gaming experience. Fans of the genre will recognize many familiar elements, but will be challenged by new twists on gameplay and unit design.

"The Rift" is nearing completion, with an expected release date early this summer. A playable preview demo, featuring several missions and many of the novel units from the finished game will be made available to the gaming public on Wednesday, February 9, 2000.

ThrushWave Technology is a small software development company founded in 1996 to create compelling 3D environments and games. "The Rift" is ThrushWave's first independent venture. More information on ThrushWave Technology and screen shots of "The Rift" can be found at http://www.theriftgame.com.

PRESS ONLY: Advance copies of the preview demo will be available to members of the press on Monday, January 24, 2000. Contact James Thrush, below, for info.

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