NASCAR for PS2 Ships

Electronic Arts has shipped NASCAR 2001 for the Sony PlayStation 2. The game features 12 authentic NASCAR tracks, including a new addition, the Daytona International Speedway. Active drivers such as Jeff Gordon, Dale Earnhardt, Dale Jarrett, Bobby Labonte, Jeff Burton, Jeremy Mayfield, Rusty Wallace, Ricky Rudd, John Andretti, Kyle Petty, and Darrell Waltrip are among the 34 drivers in the game.

"This isn't just the best NASCAR game we have ever made," said David DeMartini, executive producer in charge of NASCAR production. "NASCAR 2001 for the PlayStation 2 is positioned to be the best racing game for the platform. We are excited to bring in fans from all racing genres to enjoy a great racing experience, NASCAR style."

In the PlayStation 2 version of the game, all of the 19 individual racers have independent AI, and they can react to each other and to the human racers. Some will make decisions to draft through most of the race, and some will be more aggressive and will concentrate more on passing. According to EA, this adds a high level of realism to NASCAR 2001.

The game will be available at retailers this week and carries a suggested retail price of US$49.95.