Electronic Arts (Nasdaq: ERTS) the World’s leading interactive entertainment software company, announced today that EA SPORTS Rugby 06, from the makers of the hit franchises FIFA and NHL, is currently under development at EA Canada and HB Studios for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, Xbox videogame system from Microsoft and PC.

EA SPORTS Rugby 06 will challenge gamers to compete in a host of the World’s most prestigious rugby competitions including the Six Nations, Lions Tour, Tri Nations, Guinness Premiership and the Super 14.

EA SPORTS Rugby 06’s exhilarating gameplay now mirrors the real thing closer than ever before, with new moves such as off-load passes, quick line-outs and quick penalties that encourage attacking, momentum-driven rugby. Gamers can also dictate play with their star Impact Players and can choose from a legion of new set plays to pile on the pressure and keep their opponents firmly on the back foot.

With TV-style presentation, stadiums from all over the world, including Twickenham, Lansdowne Road, the Millennium stadium and Murrayfield and commentary from the respected commentator Ian Robertson and All Black legend Grant Fox, EA SPORTS delivers the most action-packed and free-flowing rugby game ever.

[tags]hb studios,ea sports,rugby 06[/tags]