Starnet Communications, one of the leading providers of online casino software, announced today that it launched the first phase of its Beyond2000 software on the company's gaming site, http://www.worldgaming.com.

The first phase of the launch includes new Java casino, lottery and multi-player bingo games. It will be followed with pari-mutuel wagering and new downloadable casino, lottery and bingo products. Starnet's sports betting software and current downloadable casino games remain available to players.

"Beyond2000 leverages our expanding base of licensees -- currently the largest in the industry -- by enabling them to offer a wide selection of state-of-the-art, interactive games on multiple platforms," said President and Chief Executive Officer Meldon Ellis. "Our research indicates that player preference for browser-based Java games and downloadable software is almost evenly split. By offering an enhanced selection of advanced, interactive games on multiple platforms, our licensees now have an even greater ability to attract wide, diverse customer segments. In addition, the new lottery and bingo games target an entirely new, untapped customer base, offering outstanding opportunities for growth."

Starnet launched the new Java product line through the company's own operating Web site, www.worldgaming.com. Added Ellis, "Worldgaming is a valuable asset to Starnet. The site has always served as a testing ground for Starnet's new product introductions, from which we gain market insight. We are then able to add value by passing along our experiences on Worldgaming to our licensees before they introduce games on their own Web sites." Starnet has recently redesigned the Web site and given it an updated look, along with improved functionality and additional content. The site does not accept wagers from Canada or the United States. However, all games are available in play-for-fun mode.

Accompanying the launch of Starnet's gaming software is Starnet's new e-commerce software, EFS2000 Enterprise. The e-commerce software provides improved reporting, fraud screening detection, security and customer support systems. Like the gaming software, EFS2000 Enterprise has been designed to allow for the introduction of new features and functionality, as market conditions dictate.