Billy Hatcher and The Giant Egg has been released in the US on the 23rd of September. That same day we got our hands on a PAL version of the game at a SEGA event held in Holland.

This means we will soon bring you an updated hands-on report, a full review of the game, and some direct-feed footage taken from the PAL version. Be sure not to miss out!

You can find a press release of the US release of Billy Hatcher below.

SAN FRANCISCO - (September 23, 2003) - SEGA(R) of America, Inc. today announced the release of "Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg(TM)," a new platform game exclusively for the Nintendo GameCube(TM). Developed by the creator of SEGA's world-famous Sonic The Hedgehog(TM) series, "Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg" challenges players to solve puzzles, complete missions and defeat powerful bosses throughout massive, fantastical environments with the help of magical eggs.

The first all-new platform character from Yuji Naka and Sonicteam(TM) since the SEGA Saturn(TM) era, "Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg" is the story of a young boy on a mission to save the world from the clutches of the evil Crow King who threatens to rule with an everlasting night. Gamers must learn to harness the powers of a legendary rooster suit and control magical eggs to restore light to the land.

"Yuji Naka and Sonicteam has once again created a groundbreaking gaming experience filled with colorful worlds and one-of-a-kind characters," said Shinobu Toyoda, Executive Vice President, SEGA of America, Inc. "Billy Hatcher's offbeat and engaging gameplay offers something for gamers of all ages this fall and into the holiday season."

A vibrant, new spin on the traditional platformer, "Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg" challenges gamers to solve puzzles, fight enemies, and ultimately hatch magical creatures that enhance their abilities. Players will find the fast action and unique elements that they expect from Sonicteam titles as they explore themed, mystical environments on their quest to save the kingdom of Morningland. The adventure also includes hidden characters, and a four-player split-screen feature with cooperative and competitive gameplay modes.

"Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg" is rated "E" for Everyone and is available at retailers nationwide for an MSRP of $39.95.