Microsoft Corp. today announced it will release �NFL Fever 2003,� its exclusive football title for the Xbox� video game system, this summer in time for the start of the 2002 NFL season. A smash hit in its rookie season, this franchise will include several new customization and presentation features and gameplay enhancements. In �NFL Fever 2003,� gamers can customize uniforms, playbooks and plays. �NFL Fever 2003� updates will include up-to-date rosters, the NFL�s new eight-division format, the new expansion team, the Houston Texans, and new stadiums for the Bears, Lions and Patriots. The gridiron game also will feature online capabilities.

The post-game highlight reel, which proved to be a big hit with gamers last season, will be expanded in �NFL Fever 2003.� Additional gameplay features, along with the �NFL Fever 2003� spokesperson and the in-game announcers, will be announced before the game�s launch. �Microsoft� sports franchises are defining great sports gaming on Xbox,� said Ed Fries, vice president of game content for Xbox at Microsoft. ��NFL Fever 2003� builds on this success with new enhancements, game-play features and online features.�