Popeye for Mobiles Is Here

Namco Networks just released the Arcade Classic Popeye game for mobile phones, and to celebrate this, it teamed up with Sprint to launch a Popeye sweepstakes that will run until 30 November 2007. Popeye fans can win 75 authorized edition DVD four-disc sets with Popeye The Sailor: 1933-1938 Volume 1, distributed by Warner Home Video. Any Sprint subscriber can enter the sweepstakes, without necessarily buying the game, by texting the word "Popeye" from a Sprint phone or by accessing the game's homepage.

Popeye for mobiles captures the spirit of the classic arcade from the 80s. Players have to help Popeye win back his sweetie, Olive Oyl, while avoiding Bluto's punches, Sea Hag's thrown bottles or Bernard the Buzzard's attacks. As in the original comic, when eating spinach Popeye gains strength and can knock his rival Bluto off the picture. Besides the original arcade version, the mobile Popeye game includes an enhanced mode with bonus game play featuring fresh graphics, additional characters and two brand new rounds: "Spinach Run" and "A Dream Walking". Moreover, points earned during the game can be changed for downloadable Popeye comics.

"As a well-known brand seen in everything from DVDs, comics, merchandise, and even theme park attractions, Popeye is a character that appeals to all ages," says Scott Rubin, vice president of sales and marketing for Namco Networks. "By coupling this evergreen brand and character with addictive game play, we are bringing a fun and entertaining mobile game to a mass-market audience based on a property and storyline that everyone knows and loves."

Attendees at the E for All games and entertainment exhibition held in Los Angeles between 18 and 21 October can preview the new Popeye for mobiles on Sprint phones at Namco's booth.

"In its inaugural year, E for All is open to consumers of all ages looking for the latest and greatest entertainment and games," said Mary Dolaher, Chief Executive Officer of IDG World Expo, the owner of E for All. "The launch of Popeye at the show brings more awareness to the mobile platform as an entertainment device, and is a reflection of Namco Networks' commitment to mobile entertainment for everyone. We are very much looking forward to having Namco Networks at E for All this week."