Codemasters today announced that it is launching a unique online viral campaign for the European release of Turning Point: Fall of Liberty.

Tapping into the global social networking phenomenon, Codemasters has created a Facebook profile for Mario Contasino, the man who inspired the events of Turning Point: Fall of Liberty. Those who add Mario Contasino as a friend on their Facebook profile will automatically be entered into a competition to win a PlayStation 3 and a copy of Turning Point: Fall of Liberty.

Mario Contasino was the taxi driver who accidentally knocked down Winston Churchill in 1931 when the future prime minister looked the wrong way whilst crossing a busy New York City street. Churchill made a full recovery following the accident, but the premise of Turning Point: Fall of Liberty revolves around what might have happened had Churchill died as a result of his injuries.

Without a strong leader to rally behind, Turning Point: Fall of Liberty suggests that the Allied forces succumb to the Nazi war machine, with Britain surrendering to Nazi occupation. In the alternative history first-person shooter, gamers take on the role of everyman Dan Carson, a New York City construction worker finds himself fighting alongside the resistance when the Nazis launch a full-scale invasion of America in 1953.

To honour how Mario Contasino’s historic events inspired the video game, Codemasters recently launched a search to track down his descendents. As a result of the global search, it was discovered that he enlisted for service during World War II, but sadly passed away on January 17, 1989. However, the search for his descendents continues and you can join the hunt at www.codemasters.co.uk/quest

Richard Eddy, Director, Communication, says: “Turning Point: Fall of Liberty features one of the most provocative premises ever created for a video game. The role that Mario Contasino played in its inspiration and creating a Facebook profile for the man is a fantastic way of honouring him through social networking.”

To be in with a chance to win a PlayStation 3 and a copy of Turning Point: Fall of Liberty*, entrants are required to have an active Facebook account and add ‘Mario Contasino’ to their Facebook friends list or use the web link below. *Terms and conditions apply.http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1065436577