Celebrity game designer Dr. Richard Garfield (creator of the popular MAGIC: THE GATHERING Trading Card Game) has returned to iconic strategy board-game brand AVALON HILL to help relaunch the award-winning RoboRally, his classic game of battling robots. Out of print since the late ’90s, this game of mechanized mayhem has maintained a dedicated following of fans and fanatics through game clubs, play-by-mail forums and internet communities. In July, RoboRally aficionados worldwide will be treated to an updated printing of the popular game. AVALON HILL is published by Seattle-based hobby game leader Wizards of the Coast, Inc. (NYSE: HAS).

"Our decision to reprint RoboRally was driven by strong consumer demand," said Linda Cox, brand manager for Avalon Hill. "Since I joined the AVALON HILL team there's been one consistent question in the input we've received from customers: ‘Where can I get RoboRally?'"

RoboRally is a fast-moving robot race in which each player tries to be the first to cross a series of checkpoints by moving a robot across the floor of the "Grid Widget Factory" while avoiding perils such as lasers, crushers, missile launchers and conveyer belts. Players can compete individually or on teams. Unique movement rules encourage strategic, critical thinking.

The 2005 reprint of RoboRally will include new design and play mechanics that differ from the game's original release while maintaining full backward-compatibility with the first edition. "Richard has worked closely with us on the re-release," explained Cox. "Revamping a classic can be tricky but we're certain RoboRally's most dedicated fans will be pleased with the tune-up the game received."

Suitable for two to eight players, ages twelve and up, RoboRally will have a national on-sale date of July 15 and a suggested retail price of $50.00.