Electronic Arts Announces EA SPORTS GameShow

Electronic Arts has announced the EA SPORTS GameShow, an online trivia game that will allow sports buffs to show off their superficial depths in head-to-head competitions.

Developed by EA Tiburon, EA SPORTS GameShow is a free downloadable game for the PC. Sports fans will be able to square off against one another in national competitions featuring a live game show host. EA Sports President Peter Moore said, "EA SPORTS GameShow is an exciting addition to the EA Sports portfolio and the perfect complement to our core simulation sports product lineup. As we create new experiences on new platforms that target larger and more diverse audiences, EA SPORTS GameShow is a massively multiplayer game with broad appeal and high accessibility. It's the perfect test for sports fans of all ages."

The game will be broadcast over the internet in real-time, beginning this fall. Multiple choice questions will be supported with a variety of media, including audio and video, and players will have instant access to their performance. Prizes will be awarded, and a leaderboard with customizable avatars will highlight regional and national winners.

The announcement appears to follow the direction set by Electronic Arts President John Riccitiello, who said in July that the industry needed to more aggressively pursue "casual" gamers who may not be interested in playing conventional games from start to finish.