Grid 2 ‘will set new standards for racing games’

Codemasters has finally lifted the lid on the next game in its acclaimed Grid series.

Grid 2 will launch on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC next year.

It was unveiled to the games press last week and was shown running on PC, giving the media a brief glimpse at what can be expected from the next generation of Codemasters racers.

"It’s our intention to once again set new standards for the genre," said the game’s executive producer Clive Moody.

"A suite of new tools and innovations powered by the continued evolution of the EGO game technology platform will ensure that Grid 2 will be a landmark title in terms of technology, but we refuse ti lose focus on what made Grid such a success – it’s all about the race."

Moody added that the game won’t fall into the trap of focusing on ‘car lists, contrived narratives or gimmicks’

The game’s single and multiplayer modes will be independent from one another. The career mode spans three continents – with road racing, street racing and track racing the three different options.

Meanwhile, the multiplayer mode takes inspiration from the likes of Call of Duty, and includes a progression system for players. It will also be integrated with Codemasters’ new online network, Racenet.

"It’s our ambition to make Grid 2 the finest online racing experience available to games," said Ian Smith, association producer on Grid 2.

"It is about taking inspiration from the best multiplayer games from across the genres – not just racing games – and combining them with our own ideas and tech to push forward what can be done."

Moody added: "The core design that runs through Grid 2 is to consider the race as a character, not a consequence of putting cars on tracks.

"Pushing the technological barrier for an exercise in software engineering excellence across multiple disciplines, but creating a racing experience so alive you can feel it is an art. That’s our goal. And that’s what we call total race day immersion."

Check out later today for a more in-depth discussion on what fans can expect from Grid 2.