SOURCE: Press Release

Ladbrokespoker.com will become the first leading poker site to offer 3-D virtual reality poker this week when it launches a new service that integrates the very latest video gaming software with its existing poker service.

The launch means that all Ladbrokespoker customers will have the option of creating a 3-D 'Avatar' with physical characteristics chosen by the player. In the poker game the 3-D player will display the same human-like movements that have been developed for state of the art video games.

MD of Ladbrokes eGaming John O'Reilly commented: "This is a major step in the convergence of video gaming technology and online gaming and we're pleased to be the first leading poker site to go 'virtual'"

The move means that all Ladbrokes customers can still play on any Ladbrokes table, but have the option of playing in 3-D should they choose to. The service further enhances the online poker experience and by enabling players to talk to each other using VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) as well as existing text chat.

The new exclusive Ladbrokes site has been developed in conjunction with Playwize plc. Playwize is a leading UK developer of video games for consoles such as XBOX, PS2 and Nintendo GameCube. Players have the opportunity to develop their skills by using interactive tutorials and by playing in practice mode with advice and tips from a poker experts.

O'Reilly continued: "The key development has been to ensure the 3-D virtual software integrates effectively with our existing site to ensure we deliver new 3D players the Ladbrokes game liquidity. This means 3-D players will have access to all the same tournaments and cash games as existing players".