– March 18, 2009 – Cryptic Studios™, a leading developer and publisher of massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs), is rolling out an incredible new environment for the Champions Online beta (www.champions-online.com). Already well known for their spectacular cityscapes, Cryptic Studios is expanding Champions Online with the underwater kingdom of Lemuria.

Lemuria is a kingdom torn asunder by civil war. A conflict, brewing for thousands of years, has finally come to the surface with the return of the ancient Lemurian gods and their demands for loyalty. Players must navigate the politically fraught waters of Lemuria and avoid its myriad monsters while attempting to prevent the use of an ancient doomsday weapon.

“Lemuria is a spectacular world that’s been hidden from the rest of civilization for hundreds of years,” said Bill Roper, Executive Producer for Champions Online. “Players are going to be amazed as they explore the mysteries and dangers of the deep.”

Details about Lemuria, its denizens, and much more about the Champions Online universe will be revealed between now and launch. “We’re going to be focusing on different features within Champions every few weeks. Expect trailers, screenshots, villain profiles and more,” added Tricia Gray, Director of Marketing. “We want everyone to see more of this year’s biggest upcoming MMORPG.”

Champions Online is scheduled for worldwide launch coming Autumn 2009. To keep up with all the exciting new developments, please visit the official website at: www.champions-online.com