Cypress, CA. 6/6/06 - In the past year, Bandai Collectible Games (Bandai CG) has seen many areas of growth. Bandai's latest release: The Naruto CCG has sold though in its initial launch and orders for Naruto Series #2 "Coils of the Snake", which launches exclusively to the hobby in July, are higher than anticipated. Organized Play participation, both from players and those willing to volunteer and run these events, have skyrocketed.

Because of this growth, Bandai Collectible Games is announcing several internal changes that will promote success for all tiers of the hobby channel; improvements that will be enjoyed and felt from distributors, retailers and players alike.

First, Bandai CG has signed an agreement with Worlds Apart Productions, the Colorado-based company responsible for "The Lord of the Rings" online CCG and current provider of the "Anachronism CCG" OP website. Worlds Apart will be updating and enhancing the current Naruto CCG OP system with a completely revamped OP website for tournament registration and reporting that will support Tournament Organizers and an ambitious Premier events series in the coming year.

Coupled with the transformation that will occur in Organized Play, a new program for Bandai volunteers or "Meijin" will also be instituted. This progressive program will include a generous reward system for these volunteers as well as a tiered system of advancement to Judges for Naruto Premier Events. This entire system will be instituted and managed by Kim Logie a new addition to the Organized Play department at Bandai Collectible Games. Kim has been involved in the Hobby Gaming industry for the past 12 years in varying ways and brings her full experience and passion for the hobby to Bandai.

The Premier Season for the Naruto CCG Organized Play department will be announced in the next few weeks, including prizing, dates and a unique and compelling Organized Play system that is tailored specifically to the Naruto license.

Looking forward, the hobby market and Bandai continue to watch with interest the success of the Naruto CCG. Bandai Collectible Games will continue to bring the very best of US animated and Japanese Anime properties to the North American Hobby Market. These positive changes will only enhance the play experience and the manageability of new licenses and programs in the coming years.