A runaway success with over one million members, Metal Gear Online provided registered members with fun, fresh new content for the online tactical shooter based on the highly acclaimed Metal Gear Solid series. To continue the momentum, Konami has announced the launch of the "Welcome Rookie" Campaign to attract new members to the exciting online phenomenon. The campaign will reward all fans who register the Metal Gear Online retail version between December 24, 2008 and February 16, 2009 with special MGO Codec Pack, that includes special voice content, and 5,000 additional reward points that can be redeemed in the MGO in-game shop to purchase items that can be used in the game. The exclusive Welcome Rookie Campaign is only open to players who have not previously installed and registered the retail version of Metal Gear Online on their PLAYSTATION 3 . Some of the game items that can be purchased from the MGO shop are only available to those who have purchased the Metal Gear Online Expansion Packs. For more information please visit: http://www.konami.jp/metal/mgo/.

Fans who have never played Metal Gear Online have the opportunity to download a free version now thru January 29th. The free demo, along with a free Metal Gear Solid 4 demo, are available on the PlayStation Network.

The Welcome Rookie Campaign will be available to new registered members from December 24, 2008 thru Feb 16th, 2009. Prize distribution will occur after February 17th. The Metal Gear Online free demo service can be downloaded now thru January 29th on the PlayStation Network.