SportzArena

The first ever European coproduction of an online game has hit the mark of 100,000 registered users. SportzArena, as the game is known, is available on the web through the nine EBU coproducers at www.sportzarena.com.

The game, which is aimed at 8-12 year olds, was launched in the last quarter of 2003 across Europe. With over 100,000 registered users, the game beats even the most optimistic estimations. Developed by nine EBU Members and produced by the Danish agency Subsilo, SportzArena is breaking new ground.

"Given the overwhelming success of the game, we are very interested in developing similar products," explained Max Johns of the EBU TV Department, who coordinated the production. "The multilingual approach and the multiplayer games are in themselves innovative and challenging. Additionally, as an integral part of the game, the participating EBU Members developed a non-verbal chat tool, enabling European users to play and communicate. "

EBU Members interested in becoming part of SportzArena can contact Max Johns and find more information at: www.ebu.ch/departments/television.