Codemasters lifted the lid on GRID 2 today, its long-awaited sequel to 2008’s Race Driver: GRID, due to launch in 2013 for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and PC.
GRID 2, which has been in pre-production for two years, will offer players “a stunning new world of competitive motorsport.” Now in full development using EGO game technology, it promises to one-up its predecessor by raising the “gameplay and technological bar for motorsport gaming,” while remaining true to the series core racing value.
The game will feature an “expansive” career mode, where players will “experience aggressive wheel-to-wheel racing against advanced AI where each spectacular race unfolds with cinematic immersion,” and the new TrueFeel Handling System, which will use “real physics to hit a sweetspot between accessibility and simulation” and deliver handling that is “approachable,” but “challenging to master.” Its multiplayer mode promises to set new standards, offering “distinct and extensive gameplay,” deep customization options, RaceNet integration (Codemasters’ online racing community), and more.
The sequel’s car selection spans four decades and three continents (U.S., Europe, and Asia), and its tracklist ranges from Paris to Abu Dhabi, Miami to California, and more.
“GRID’s back and we’re going to make street, track and road racing exciting again,” said executive producer Clive Moody. “The core design philosophy for GRID 2 is that we treat the race as a character, not a consequence of simply putting cars on tracks. Everything that goes into the game impacts on that second-to-second, in the moment, blockbuster drama – the feel and personality of the race.
“We’re pushing boundaries once again with what can be accomplished in the genre via new tools, technology and innovations. In single-player, split-screen and online, the next-generation of the EGO Game Technology Platform will power graphics, AI, handling and damage advancements that will immerse players in the racing experience like never before. Like its predecessor, GRID 2 will put the sheer thrill and adrenaline rush of the race at the heart of the experience. It’s what we call Total Race Day Immersion.”
Revealed in today’s trailer are the first two of the game’s new locations, Chicago and Paris. Watch that below. View the first set of screenshots at the gallery.
