Roubaix, France – August 23rd, 2011 – Ankama launches a new strategy game dedicated to the emblematic sport of its universe. The international open beta will take place from the 8th to the 18th of September.

Gobbowl is a game stemming from Ankama's imagination. It mixes rugby and American football. Two teams composed of five players will face each other according to specific rules. The aim is to ground the Gobball behind the enemy goal line.

Gobbowl – the video game

Gobbowl is a free-to-play, online strategic sport simulation, which requires no installation (it is browser-based) and confronts two players. It features a unique, simultaneous turn-based gameplay system. Set in the universe of DOFUS and WAKFU, players can choose any of the of the 14 available character classes to join their Gobbowl team. Each player will be able to demonstrate their talents as a coach by sending their team to compete in epic games around the world!

Gobbowl's features:

- Simple gameplay accessible to all

Each primary element becomes a specific order affected by the strengths and weaknesses of the character classes. Earth for attacking, Fire for dodging and catching, Air for passing and finally Water for speed and regenerating!

- A browser-based game that can be played anywhere

There's no client to install, and all information is stored on a remote server. Players can access their team and find a game wherever they are.

- A playing style to develop

The player can choose one of the many predefined teams or create a team from scratch, selecting their players from the 14 character classes available in DOFUS and WAKFU.

- Varied game environments

Each stadium has its own set of unique rules. Enjoy a match in Bonta, Brakmar, the Bam-Mamas Archipelago, and plenty of other locations!

- A permanent, themed tournament system

Players can try to become the Gobbowl World Champion! Every match changes the ranking. In addition to the persistent leaderboards, themed tournaments will further complement this offbeat sport with their many surprises.

- A free-to-play game

Gobbowl is free to play, and allows players to compete without time restrictions in exciting matches. Only advanced cosmetic customisation options will be subject to payment via the secure Ogrines system – Ankama's in-game currency.

An international open beta will be held before the multilingual release of the game, from the 8th to the 18th of September. The game will be available in English, French, German and Spanish.

About ANKAMA

Founded by Anthony Roux, Camille Chafer and Emmanuel Darras in Roubaix in 2001, ANKAMA is an independent group which produces digital creations and employs over 450 people. The international success of the group's MMORPG DOFUS, with more than 40 million players, enabled ANKAMA to branch out into several related industries: online games, publishing, animations, web design, press, mobile phone services and video games for next gen' consoles. ANKAMA is also developing WAKFU, a transmedia project composed of animated cartoon, video game, card game and comic book. For more information, visit our official website: www.ankama-group.com