MUMBAI: Electronic Arts (EA) and sports broadcaster ESPN US have announced a long-term agreement for the development and integrated marketing of EA Sports games containing ESPN content.
 
 
The California headquartered EA is an interactive entertainment software company. In 2003, EA had 27 titles that sold more than one million copies.

The relationship with ESPN will include established EA Sports franchises- which will be enhanced by ESPN's telecast, print and online content. EA will also come out with new sports games based on ESPN properties.

 
 
The agreement gives EA access to ESPN's programming, personalities and integrated marketing opportunities on ESPN television programming and other ESPN properties. The ESPN integration will appear in EA Sports console, handheld, PC and wireless games beginning in 2006 upon the conclusion of ESPN's existing video game licensing commitments.

The agreement is for 15 years with an option to terminate after 10 years under certain conditions. It gives EA the exclusive first rights to all ESPN content for simulation sports games.

 
 
EA chairman and CEO Larry Probst said, "EA Sports recreates the real life experience fans enjoy while watching or playing their favorite sport; while ESPN programming captures the look, sound and excitement of the sports they follow. Together, we believe we can significantly grow the interactive sports category."