News Release For immediate release

Shrapnel Games announces availability of Space Empires: IV demo. Updated demo is available for download from Shrapnel's Website.

Cary, NC, August 14, 2000 Shrapnel Games, and developer Malfador Machinations, announced today the release of the anxiously awaited updated demo for Space Empires: IV. You can download this demo at Shrapnel Games' Website at http://www.shrapnelgames.com.

Space Empires IV is a massive space strategy game for Windows. You control your empire in an ever changing and hostile galaxy. Design your starships and use them to explore new solar systems throughout the galaxy. Hundreds of different components are available to place on your ships, and giant facilities to build on your planets. Use fighters, troops, mines, satellites, and weapon platforms to supplement your starships. Build your empire through research, intelligence operations, politics, treaties, and decisively planned strategy. Engage in Tactical or Strategic Combat, or use the Combat Simulator. Up to 20 players, human or computer, can play against each other with multi-player support (turn-based or simultaneous play). Customize the graphics for your

ships and download updates from our website!

The demo itself is limited to 100 turns, enough time to get a strong feel for how this massive game plays. Richard Arnesen, Director of Covert Operations for Shrapnel Games, said, "Space Empires: IV is going to be a huge hit. We have had record sales every week since announcing that we will publish this massive space strategy game! Now, those unfamiliar with the series can download the demo from our website and see for themselves what all the fuss is about." Space Empires: IV is available for pre-release ordering at Shrapnel Games' website at http://www.shrapnelgames.com.

For more information, please contact:

Timothy W. Brooks

PMB #164

952 US Hwy 64 West

Apex, NC 27502-7184

tbrooks@shrapnelgames.com