Any Aussie logging into the local EB Games Web site lately would have been intrigued to see a countdown timer ticking down to Thursday this week. Local gamers have long wondered when EB Games would start offering online retailing down under--was this finally going to be it?

　　GameSpot AU spoke to EB Games Australia Web site coordinator Adrian Mckenzie, who confirmed the company is launching a brand-new site for Australians and New Zealanders to check out game information, release dates, and more from 9 a.m. on Thursday, May 24, 2007. The new site, unfortunately, will not feature an online sales component.

　　Mckenzie said online retail was a "2008 project," but did outline some of the new features users can expect from the site, www.ebgames.com.au for Australia and www.ebgames.co.nz for New Zealand. As well as a comprehensive product catalog, the site will feature a store locator, game reviews and previews, latest news, and downloads. The EB Games site will also allow users to check if their local store is stocking a particular game.

　　"Whatever sale we have at store level, you'll also see that catalog online. So you'll see what's on sale, what discount it has, and actually see if it is in stock at a local store," Mckenzie said.

　　Mckenzie said the site would also feature exclusive promotions and competitions for those gamers who sign up at the site for e-mail alerts. Two promotions will run for launch--the first will give away a prize every hour for the following week, while the second gives all those who sign up a special voucher for EB Games' June sales.