Midway Games announced that Area 51 is scheduled to ship in 2004 for the Microsoft Xbox and Sony Playstation 2 platforms.

Area 51 is described as a “sci-fi meets government cover-up” First-Person shooter. Area 51 takes place in the US Government facility of the same name. Players assume the role of Lt. Nick Cross, a hazardous biological waste specialist. Lt. Cross is sent to investigate the facility. During his investigation, he discovers alien creatures and is infected with a biological mutagen. Lt. Cross must fight to solve the mysteries of Area 51 to save the world.

"The intrigue and rumors that surround the top-secret facility add a unique intensity and all-new dimension to this first-person shooter," said Helene Sheeler, vice president of marketing, Midway.

Area 51 takes players through eight levels filled with combat, puzzles, discovery, and adventure.

What could separate this title from other sci-fi First-Person shooters in the market is the multiplayer options. Area 51 will not only sport a four-player splitscreen mode, but will also support online multiplayer on the Xbox and the PlayStation 2.

Further adding to the complete science fiction theme is the creature design by Stan Winston. While you may not recognize his name, Stan’s creations are some of the most memorable science fiction creatures on the silver screen. Past works would include creatures in the films “Aliens,” “Predator,” “Edward Scissorhands,” and “Jurassic Park.” His most recent work was in Terminator 3. Stan Winston has earned four Academy Awards for his efforts. His creature designs in Area 51 will truly add a major part to this game and possibly separate it from many other sci-fi shooters out there.

Area 51 Features
 

• Extensive Single-Player Campaign – Battle through corridors of Area 51 and attempt to discover the secrets of the extraterrestrial menace before it is too late.
• Story-Driven Epic Adventure – Engage in an epic adventure through eight massive sections of a secretive complex.
• Fearsome Weaponry – Equip yourself with more than 15 types of human and alien weapons and other equipment as you explore dark corridors.
• Evolving Gameplay – An infectious mutagen gives Lt. Nick Cross alien-enhanced physical abilities but is also slowly transforming him into an alien. Find the cure before it's too late and humanity is lost.
• Alien Menace – Battle fierce, horrific creatures designed by Stan Winston Studios, famed creature designer for such films as "Aliens", "Jurassic Park" and "Predator".
• Government Conspiracies – Explore and discover a multitude of secret items and areas, including the real answers behind such conspiracy theories.
• Multiplayer Combat – Compete against your friends via a four-player split screen and system link through numerous multiplayer game modes including Death Match.
• Online Combat – Battle online with your PlayStation 2 or via Xbox Live where you can easily access the many systems allowing you to find your friends and set up your own matches

Reported By: Nick Arvites