The chance to play with your heroes for soccer's most important trophy became a reality today after EA started to ship the 2006 FIFA World Cup game to stores around the world.

The event's only officially licensed videogame has developed enhanced gameplay attributes and stunning graphics that bring to life close to 100 superstars, and captures all of the spirit and pageantry of the real-world tournament. It is the closest fans can come to experiencing 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany without playing in it.

Along with the release of 2006 FIFA World Cup, EA and FIFA announced the extension of their long-term partnership, making EA the worldwide and exclusive FIFA Licensee for soccer action games across all console platforms, mobile phones and online formats. The on-going partnership will allow EA to continue to bring the most genuine soccer gaming experiences to consumers with the authenticity of the FIFA soccer world, and includes games for the future FIFA World Cups in 2010 and 2014.

In 2006 FIFA World Cup, users step into the heart of the action as they play their favorite team or most loathed opponent. Featuring stunning visual representations of the world's superstar players, gamers experience the 12 official stadiums as they take their team from qualification to glory. In addition to taking control of one of 127 national teams, players will enjoy groundbreaking new play modes. Global Challenge tests even the biggest soccer fanatic by recreating classic moments in FIFA World Cup history with modern teams. True champions can challenge their friends in eight-way multiplayer matches and take advantage of tremendous in-game un-lockable content such as legendary players and exclusive licensed football apparel.

2006 FIFA World Cup, developed by EA Canada under the EA SPORTS brand, ships today in North America and on April 28 in Europe and Asia on the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox and Xbox 360 video game systems from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube, Nintendo DS, and Game Boy Advance, PC and mobile. It will ship on the PSP (PlayStation Portable) system in May. The game is rated "E" (Everyone) by the ESRB and has a PEGI rating of 3+.

Learn more about the game at: http://www.easports2006fifaworldcup.com/ or download screenshots and renders at http://info.ea.com.