STRATEGY

Empire's strategy continues to evolve in line with the life cycle of the games consoles and trends in the market. We are focused on continuing to develop and publish quality titles for our customers across all the current platforms and onto the next generation and currently have titles in development for PC, Sony PS2, Sony PSP, Nintendo DS and Microsoft360.

Our strength is being able to develop high quality computer games that are capable of being turned into successful franchises. Successful franchises for the Group that we continue to develop include FlatOut, Big Mutha Truckers, International Cricket Captain, Ford Racing, Taito Legends and Hello Kitty. The ongoing process of sequel development has allowed Empire to implement R&D efficiencies saving development time and costs.

We have two clear strands to our business - frontline and value. The frontline titles are full-priced games aimed at the more hard core gamer such as FlatOut. These games are published under the Empire brand.

Our value range began life in 2002 under the Xplosiv banner, becoming the fastest growing PC value range in Europe. 2003 saw a move into value PS2 titles, the success of which has led us to specifically develop games in the PS2 value space such as the Ford Racing franchise. These games are aimed at the more casual gamer. Click here to view all of our games.

PARTNERSHIPS

A key part of Empire's international success is its relationships with its development and distribution partners. Empire quickly realised that a strong partner for its distribution would be essential to broadening its customer base in North America, due to the sheer size of the territory.

Over the past 5 years we have worked in North America on the distribution of our games with market leaders such as Vivendi Games, Take 2 Games, THQ, Crave, Sega and Eidos.

Similarly in Japan with Konami, Sega and Capcom which has ensured Empire's games are readily available in all leading retailers.

In mainland Europe we partner with local distribution specialists, whilst in the UK we use our long-standing relationships with retailers to sell our products directly to them.

Our development resource is a healthy mix of internally and externally developed titles allowing for the continued redevelopment of proven game software engines and technology.