British computer games publisher Digital Jesters is aiming to get the nation's games players off their backsides and onto the pitch, with a programme designed to increase the awareness and the popularity of rugby. <br /> <br />To coincide with the release of its forthcoming Pro Rugby Manager 2 PC game - which will be available on 25th February - Digital Jesters is investing £25,000 in the 'Pro Rugby Manager 2 Stars of the Future' programme. Available by logging on to <a href=http://www.prorugbymanager.com target="_blank"> www.prorugbymanager.com</a>, this new sporting initiative will allow youth clubs, sports centres and schools to register for special Pro Rugby Manager 2 packs which include a number of free professional rugby balls.<br /> <br />These packs will also contain demos of Pro Rugby Manager 2, which will allow users to experiment with tactics, formations and strategies on the computer. The game - the sequel to last year's PC smash - offers the most in-depth simulation of the sport ever devised, and is a perfect piece of software for rugby fans to bone up on their management skills. The brand new 2D tactical view works with the stunning 3D view in giving wannabe managers and players complete control over in-depth attacking and defensive strategies. <br /> <br />"Despite the fact rugby is the fastest-growing sport in the UK, it's still way behind football as the sport of choice for the nation's youth," says Leo Zullo, Marketing Director, Digital Jesters. "Therefore, we want to help youth centres encourage kids to take up the sport through our Pro Rugby Manager 2 packs, hopefully setting some youngsters on the path to becoming international players. It's exciting to think this programme could help nurture a new Johnny Wilkinson."
Pro Rugby Manager 2
The hard hitting, try scoring, goal kicking phenomenon that is Pro Rugby Manager returns to PC CDROM in 2005 bigger than ever before. With over 100 clubs and national teams, lead your squad to victory in national championships, international tournaments and the ultimate prize, the World Cup.
- Photo realistic stadiums
PRM2 features realistic stadiums that will be instantly recognizable to any rugby fan. 30 stadiums will be available, including all 12 from the Zurich Premiership.
- 2D tactical view
For those that want a more strategic view to their matches, PRM2 breaks things down with an aerial display. Everything you need to manage the game with your whole team is within easy reach.
- Advanced tactics
PRM2 provides you with an exhaustive array of set-piece play. Take advantage of scrums, penalties or lineouts to set an attack straight off the training ground.
- Lifelike players and editing system
Each position now has body shape to match, with all major players accurately modelled. Put you or your team in the game with the brand new, user friendly, player editing system.
- All new motion capture animation
Wire frame modeling from motion captured players has created amazing in game movement and cut scenes for key moments, such as tries and drop goals.
- International teams
Play as England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales as well as over 50 other nations, including New Zealand and Australia in multiple international competitions.
- Home of the Zurich Premiership
Pro Rugby Manager 2 is the
ONLY game endorsed by Premier Rugby, meaning it is the only place supporters of the Zurich Premiership can find their favourite teams, players and stadiums.
*NB - Pro Rugby Manager 2 is released on
25th February.