14:09 (BST), 27/03/2008

Leading publisher Lighthouse Interactive and developer ClockStone Software, today announced the release of a new update for their fantasy-based action RPG for Windows®, AVENCAST: Rise of the Mage. The update adds several new enhancements upgrading the game to version 1.03. The update is a multi-language version. AVENCAST: Rise of the Mage was released in November 2007 across North America and Europe, and is available for purchase at major retail stores and online.

Upgrades in version 1.03:

- monster health bar instead of "wounded text"

- low mana / health feedback improved

- bugfix: unexpected monster health refill

- bugfix: monster disappears

- bugfix: planetarium laser

- balancing: Kalios fire dwarf quest easier

- balancing: Tertius boss monster in vault level easier

- workaround: 'disable videos' option for users with codec / driver problems

To download update version 1.03 (file size: 8.8 MB) visit: www.lighthouse-interactive.com.

The complete list of new features included in the upgrade, is available at the Lighthouse forums and at www.avencast.com.

As the sun rises over Avencast, the renowned academy of magic; a young adept begins his perilous journey. In a world of wizardry, wonder and untold mystery, you must undertake some of the most diverse quests to hone your abilities in spell casting, weaponry and melee combat. Your martial skills are soon put to the test as demonic monsters of unknown ancient origin descend upon Avencast turning the academy into a horrific state of chaos and destruction.

Armed with over 50 combat moves and spells, and a vast arsenal of equipment items, you must uncover the source of these ominous happenings while vanquishing an onslaught of fiendish enemies. Treachery and deceit reveal themselves as the vicious army of adversaries beleaguers your frail haven threatening Avencast’s very existence. Amidst the mayhem, an astonishing truth unfolds which will forever change the battle scarred Wizard.

• Cast Lethal Spells from Different Skill Trees – Surrounded by vicious foes, unleash a mighty soul magic spell. The pure agglomeration of energy alone produces a warp in the surrounding atmosphere before the catastrophic nova demolishes your enemies. Blood Magic (elementally charged blows with varying speeds, ranges, and damage properties) and Soul Magic (covers all kinds of ranged magic spells allowing better area control) – both allow players to summon reinforcements during combat.

• Perilous Quests – While brawn and agility will win most battles, acumen and strategic thinking are necessary to survive challenging quests.

• Fluid Combat System – Chain together spells and easily execute lethal attacks using an innovative system that favors skillful gameplay over dull mouse clicking. Unleash your hero’s potential as you bring your own player skills to each intense battle.

• Strong Player Personification & Character Development - Acquire new equipment, armor, weapons and spell casting skills to craft a powerful character.

• Over 30 Nightmarish Monsters with Advanced AI – Each with versatile combat strategies, attacks, and defensive moves dependant upon the player’s behavior and attack strategy.

• State-of-the-art 3D Engine – Stunning graphics enhanced with advanced visual effects make for an impressive display of devastating spell casting.

• Many Hours of Exciting Gameplay – Set in diverse worlds with both indoor and outdoor environments to explore.

• Attractive to a Broad Range of Players – An Action RPG at its core, but dynamic gameplay and adventure-like quests make AVENCAST attractive to a broad range of game players.

Windows® XP / Vista™

2.2 GHz Intel® Pentium® or 2200+ AMD® Athlon™ processor 512 MB (1 GB recommended for Windows® Vista™)

nVidia® GeForce™ FX 5700 or better / ATI® Radeon® 9700 or better

4x

DirectSound® compatible (Sound Blaster® X-Fi™ series sound card recommended)

4.4 GB

9.0c

Mouse, Keyboard and Speakers

To find out more about AVENCAST: Rise of the Mage and to keep up with the latest news on the game, visit www.lighthouse-interactive.com and www.avencast.com.

About ClockStone Software

ClockStone Software GmbH is an up-and-coming Austrian company specialized in developing games and multimedia applications for the PC. Located in the beautiful town of Innsbruck, Austria, their growing team of artists, programmers, and game designers together with numerous freelancing partners seeks to create innovative, state-of-the-art software and graphics at the highest level. www.clockstone.com

About Lighthouse Interactive

Lighthouse Interactive is a fast growing publisher of interactive entertainment with offices established in Toronto and Montreal, Canada, Haarlem, The Netherlands and London, England. The company is focused on bringing strong titles to the worldwide market in a wide array of genres including: RPG, Simulation, Adventure, Action and Strategy. Staffed with industry veterans, Lighthouse is the right choice for developers looking to bring their products to a worldwide audience. www.lighthouse-interactive.com

Media Contacts

Tamara Robeer

Email: pr@lighthouse-interactive.com

Tel: +31 23 540 9449