Tony Kanaan defeats Scott Dixon in IndyCar Series
by Kit

Thursday, May 27 2004

Simulated race has Kanaan over Dixon.

Tony Kanaan passed Scott Dixon to take the checkered flag in a pre-Indy 500 video game simulation conducted by Codemasters. The race took part in celebration of the 88th running of the Indianapolis 500 and the upcoming release of Codemasters’ video game, IndyCar Series 2005, which ships for the Xbox video game system from Microsoft on June 22, 2004.

Kanaan took the lead on the last lap by passing Dixon on the outside in the final turn. In the heart-pounding finish, it was a combination of precise steering and advanced tactics that allowed Kanaan to overtake Dixon and scream across the finish line. Like its predecessor, IndyCar Series 2005 is the only next generation video game to feature the full IndyCar Series experience along with all of its major circuits, including the “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

“For IRL drivers, winning the Indy 500 is the ultimate dream,” said Tom Bass, senior product manager, Codemasters. “We’ve re-created the race so accurately that Tony Kanaan could very well be celebrating two victories in one week.”

IndyCar Series 2005 adds head to head 12 player online play via Xbox� Live, improved graphics, rear view mirrors and steering wheel support. The game includes official IndyCar Series racing teams and drivers with up to 33 cars and 15 tracks, including the newly featured Twin Ring Motegi in Japan. Masterclass training, narrated by Indy Racing League Rookie of the Year Dan Wheldon, and accurate introductions made by ABC Sports commentators combine to give racing fans the ultimate racing experience.

“IndyCar Series 2005 allows fans to get a taste of IndyCar Series action first hand,” said Nicole Polsky, director of licensing for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. “The game creates such a realistic experience that many of the IRL drivers use it to keep sharp when they are unable to get on the track.”

--- Kit