Midway Games has announced a European distribution deal with Natsume Inc. for their new Rhythm/Adventure game designed for girls, Princess Debut: The Royal Ball, coming to the Nintendo DS.

In the game, players find themselves in a fantasy world where they have thirty days to get ready for the big ball; they’ll have to master their dance moves and pick a partner from one of six charming princes. They’ll meet and woo the princes through the game’s large, branching storyline and exciting event system. Once players convince a prince to be their dancing partner, it’s time to go out on the dance floor! Players will use the touch screen to guide their character gracefully across the dance floor while matching their partner’s rhythm. All of the dances in the game are taken from motion-captured professional dancers, so the game is just as impressive to watch as it is fun to play.

“What young girl doesn't dream of becoming a princess? Princess Debut transports girls into that magical fairytale world while introducing elements of dance and music,” said Hiro Maekawa, President and CEO at Natsume. “It is a true pleasure to be working with Midway to bring this unique and entertaining title to the European community.”

Princess Debut: The Royal Ball by Natsume features four modes of play including Story, Ballroom, Practice, and Movie. With twenty outfits to find, fourteen unique endings to experience, and eighteen different kinds of music and dance styles to choose from (including Waltz, Latin dance, Tango, Ballroom, and much more), there’s no shortage of things to see and do.

“We are thrilled to partner up with Natsume to bring this exciting new Nintendo DS product to the European marketplace”, said Martin Spiess, Executive Vice President International, Midway Games Ltd. “Princess Debut: The Royal Ball stands out for its sheer production value and direction in gameplay. It is a highly innovative product featuring elements from both music and dance and is aimed at the broad target group of younger girls. Princess Debut: The Royal Ball fits perfectly into our steadily growing 2009 line-up.”

Princess Debut: The Royal Ball is scheduled to be available exclusively for the Nintendo DS in June 2009. A change from the Mortal Kombat and recent The Wheelman outings we’re sure you’ll agree, but if it keeps Midway’s head-above-water, the new direction simply can’t be argued with. Electronic Theatre will keep you up-to-date with developments on both Princess Debut: The Royal Ball and publisher Midway.

-END-