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New Platform launch; Head-to-Head Poker now available.

Probability plc, the mobile phone gaming specialist, announces today the launch of a major new gaming platform that will enable it to expand its offering to include person-to-person mobile gaming for the first time. 

In contrast to its existing offering, games based upon the new platform will enable Probability will to generate revenues through charging players a small fee or 'rake' rather than acting as the house as it does in traditional casino games such as slots, blackjack and bingo. 

The first game to be launched on the new platform is a head-to-head mobile Texas hold 'em poker. The new game has already been tested and approved for release by its gaming regulator, the Alderney Gambling Control Commission. It will initially be promoted to the Company's 400,000 plus database of mobile gamblers, and will be featured in advertising promotions which have been agreed with at least two of the Company's mobile network partners. 

Fees in head-to-head Poker will be in line with those found in the on-line Poker industry, typically set at around 5% to 10% of the amount staked by each player in a game. The minimum stake will be £1 per player. 

The new platform also offers the potential for additional head-to-head games, including versions of Connect4 and Battleships which are planned for later this calendar year. The latter came to the company following its recently signed agreement with Hasbro.  

The 'Zaphod' platform, as it is called, utilises the internet connections provided to mobile phones. A matching engine on the platform brings players together to compete on the games at a price and skill level compatible with each player. There are personalisation and community features designed to enhance the gaming experience and generate loyalty from players, including personal avatars (characters) and social networking to allow groups of friends to play. Customers are able to use funds from the same e-wallet account already created with Probability and do so without specifically funding a separate head-to-head account. 

Commenting on today's launches, Probability CEO Charles Cohen said: 'Today's launches of our new gaming platform, and Head-To-Head Poker are the culmination of nine months intensive R&D and exhaustive testing within Probability. 

'We see the development of this new platform as a strategic investment in the future capability of our business, which could significantly enhance earnings potential in the medium term. Not only is this a unique service in the gaming industry, but by aligning it to the brands such as Connect4, it is also has potential mass appeal. .

All our experience of mobile gaming suggests that simple, quick and familiar head-to-head games played for money, such as Poker and Connect4 are ideal for the mobile customer. 

We have eschewed the option of trying to replicate the on-line experience of multi-player poker because we do not believe it offers customers a good experience and is significantly harder to establish as a commercially viable proposition. It should, in principle, be much easier to build sufficient liquidity for two player games than for the more traditional six seat poker format, for example. Rather than positioning ourselves as competition for existing poker, we hope that our offering will complement the richer on-line experience. We view our Poker game as a quick snack to have between your 'main' meal of a full session of Poker with friends, on-line or in a club.

'We will, in relevant future disclosures, be advising investors of the performance of our rake based services in a way that allows income streams to be distinguished.' 

For further information and opportunities to talk to Probability Chief Executive Charles Cohen contact: 

James Moore, PelhamPr, 07595 106567

 

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