Press release: 2002-09-03: Sega GT 2002 Speeds on to Xbox; Most Realistic Driving Game Available for Xbox Features 125 Classic and Modern Street Racers

This is an unaltered copy of a press release, for use as a primary source on Sega Retro. Please do not edit the contents below. Language: English Original source: The Free Library

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 3, 2002

SEGA(R) of America, Inc. today announced the release of "Sega GT(TM) 2002," exclusively for the Xbox(TM) videogame system from Microsoft(R). With 125 classic and modern cars, thousands of vehicle customization options, a stunning virtual garage to store trophies, and a nostalgia-rich Chronicle Mode, "Sega GT 2002" is the most realistic driving experience available for Xbox.

Ever dreamed of driving a vintage Jaguar or the classic '68 Ford Mustang GT 390 from Bullitt? Now's your chance. "Sega GT 2002" features a massive collection of the hottest street machines to ever roll off the assembly line -- from vintage roadsters from the 50s, 60s and 70s to the latest prototypes from more than 20 of the world's biggest manufacturers. Whether it's the '54 Mercedes 300SL or the Acura NSX, each car was designed to look, handle and sound exactly like their real-life counterpart.

A blend of deep simulation detail and high-octane arcade action, Sega GT 2002 Mode challenges gamers to qualify for licenses, compete in a series of increasingly competitive races and earn money to soup up their rides and buy newer, more powerful cars. "Sega GT 2002" lets players fine-tune nearly every aspect of their car's performance -- from the muffler and brakes to the suspension, body weight and tires.

The game's Chronicle Mode is a unique look back at the tradition and heritage of today's most revered sports cars. Gamers select a classic car from the 60s or 70s and battle through the decades, gradually upgrading their vehicle until they square off against today's fiercest street racers. Each race has a distinguished "classic" feel, starting in a grainy sepia tone and slowly moving into full color as the race progresses. A brief history lesson about car culture in each decade precedes every race, for the die-hard gear-head.

"'Sega GT 2002' delivers the most realistic driving experience on Xbox to date," said Mike Fischer, vice president, entertainment marketing, SEGA of America, Inc. "Blending arcade action with deep, sim-style options, stunning graphics, lighting effects and real-time reflections, 'Sega GT 2002' is the definition of a next-generation racer."

"Sega GT 2002" also features a Quick Battle Mode, which lets two players race head-to-head in split screen action and a Time Attack Mode that keeps track of course records. Races take place on more than 15 tracks, ranging from snow-covered mountain roads to gasoline soaked drag strips. The game also includes hundreds of car descriptions and backgrounders, letting gamers study up on their favorite cars.

"SEGA has been at the forefront of the racing experience since the days of 'Out Run(TM)' and 'Virtua Racing(TM),'" said Ed Fries, vice president of Xbox Game Content. "As a long time SEGA fan, it's great to see them continue to push the boundaries of racing technology and game play on Xbox."

"Sega GT 2002" is rated "E" for Everyone and is available at retailers nationwide for an MSRP of $49.99. For screenshots and artwork visit the SEGA FTP site at: ftp://segapr.segaamerica.com/Sega_Games/SEGA_ENTERTAINMENT

About SEGA

SEGA(R) of America, Inc. is the American arm of Tokyo, Japan-based SEGA Corporation, a $3.5 billion corporation by market capitalization, recognized as a worldwide leader in interactive entertainment both inside and outside the home. The company develops, publishes and distributes interactive entertainment software products for a variety of hardware platforms including PC, wireless devices, and those manufactured by Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. SEGA of America's Web site is located at www.sega.com.

About Xbox

Xbox (http://www.xbox.com/) is Microsoft's future-generation video game system that delivers the most powerful games experiences ever. Xbox empowers game artists by giving them the technology to fulfill their creative visions as never before, creating games that blur the lines between fantasy and reality. Xbox is now available in North America, Japan, Europe and Australia.

Note to Editors: Xbox is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
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