Image Metrics Launches FaceWare Facial Animation Software for Game Developers

[Tami]

HALO Developer Bungie Signs as First FACEWARETM Customer

LOS ANGELES - March 8, 2010 - Image Metrics, a leading provider of facial animation technology and services for the entertainment industry, today announced the launch of FACEWARE™, the Company's unique facial animation technology platform. Bungie, developer of the blockbuster HALO franchise, plans to incorporate Image Metrics' FACEWARE facial animation software into its in-house production pipeline.

"Image Metrics has used FACEWARE for years to create believable facial animation at all levels of quality. The technology has been proven repeatedly, whether on AAA game titles, Oscar-winning films, and Grammy-winning music videos," said Michael Starkenburg, Image Metrics' CEO. "We are excited to put this powerful tool in the hands of world-class developers like Bungie, so that they can benefit from the reduced production schedules, increased believability, and cost savings Image Metrics has always provided through our technology."

FACEWARE allows game developers increased creative control, efficiency, and production speed. The application is easily integrated into any pipeline and game engine, substantially streamlining the animation process. The artist works with the FACEWARE software in their existing 3D application to create a refined finished product as needed depending on the game situation. FACEWARE is available for all leading 3D software packages.

"Creating realistic facial animation is a critical component to bringing believable, character-driven performances to life for our next studio project," said Marcus Lehto, Creative Director at Bungie. "FACEWARE lets us raise our extremely high quality bar and maintain the ultra fast turnaround times and animator efficiency we need without impacting our existing pipeline. No other tool gives us this level of flexibility and control."

Image Metrics will also provide training for studios learning to use FACEWARE, and will continue to offer its existing full service facial animation services to developers that prefer to outsource their facial animation.

Game developers interested in the FACEWARE™ beta program can contact Image Metrics for additional details or visit Image Metrics' booth (#1910-SH) at the Game Developer's Conference from March 11 - 13, 2010 in San Francisco.