A new appointment marks determined strategy to strengthen European presence

Ever since the 3DO format failed to become accepted as an industry standard, the pioneers of that revolutionary but badly timed console have continued to try and shake off the 'failed hardware manufacturer' tag that has plagued them.

They've continued their push to transform themselves into a major publishing force with the appointment of industry veteran, Dominic Wheatley, who's been given the task of establishing the company in Europe.

Dominic's been involved with the software industry for more than a dozen years, partnering Mark Strachan in the '80s as the 'Do' half of 'Domark' before the company was swallowed by Eidos and Dominic went to pursue other affairs in America. Eight staff will be working with Dominic initially, probably from London offices, in the run up to their planned game releases in the autumn.

Leading the software charge will be the PC role-playing game Might and Magic VII, the latest version of the highly successful Might and Magic range. This will be accompanied by the usual add-ons including an expansion pack for Heroes of Might and Magic III and Crusaders of Might and Magic.

Also due out before Christmas are the follow-ups to the popular Army Men game - Army Men: Sarge's Heroes, Army Men III and Army Men: Air Attack. The series is based around combat between virtual 'plastic' soldiers.

Meanwhile, rumours have been emerging that in order to fund this transformation 3DO have been planning to make a second public offering on the US stock exchange in an attempt to raise some $30 million. Trip Hawkins, founder and CEO of 3DO, has been playing down the rumours however.