Soul Calibur III heading exclusively to PlayStation 2

Namco has announced that the next instalment in the popular Soul Calibur beat 'em up series is due to launch exclusively on the PS2 later this year, confirming internet reports that the Xbox and Cube have been dropped from its plans.

The new game, which is scheduled only for 2005, will add three new characters to the mix as well as a new character creation mode, allowing players to create their own fighters in the game.

However, despite the success of the last version of the game on Xbox and GameCube - which featured exclusive characters for each platform, with Todd McFarlane's Spawn appearing on Xbox and Legend of Zelda's Link on the Cube - Soul Calibur III will appear only on the PS2.

"Soul Calibur III expands upon the landmark achievements of the franchise, and is undoubtedly one of the must-have games for PlayStation 2 owners in 2005," enthused Namco Hometek business unit director Yoshi Niki. "With a robust character creation system, jaw-dropping graphics and a large selection of fighters, Soul Calibur III gives players the ultimate opportunity to immerse themselves in one of the most beloved series in gaming."

The game is set to be published in the UK by Sony Computer Entertainment.