Marv Albert Guilty

Acclaim's marketing and legal departments have been keeping a close eye on the Marv Albert sex trial in Virginia.

Today, their eyes can take a rest. Albert pleaded guilty to charges of assault and battery after enduring searing testimony this week from women who spoke of Albert's predilection for a variety of sexual escapades.

Aside from the trial's own web of intrigue - that other media sources have covered in greater depth than this one - its impact weighs heavy on gamers expecting the fall release of Quarterback Club '98 for the N64 from Acclaim.

On that title, the well-known and popular broadcaster provides color commentary.

Wednesday, Acclaim told GameSpot News that it was watching the case closely. And while Acclaim has publicly stated its support for the sportscaster, the spokesperson also said Acclaim had already set into motion "backup plans" should the game publisher be forced to seek another "voice" for the upcoming title.

According to Acclaim, a morals clause in Albert's contract would trigger an option to dissolve the Albert-Acclaim relationship if he were to be convicted of a crime.

Thursday afternoon, an Acclaim spokesperson told GameSpot News, "We are evaluating the situation and are not prepared to make a statement." She said a statement would be forthcoming next Monday.

Acclaim did not specify who was being considered as a replacement for Albert, nor did it say how implementing a "backup plan" - if it chose to - would affect the game's scheduled fall release date.

Albert will be sentenced on October 24.