Codemasters Declares Virtual Winner of Indy 500 Using IndyCar Series Video Game

    INDIANAPOLIS, Ind.--May 22, 2003--In a video game competition that ended in classic IndyCar(TM) Series fashion, Sam Hornish, Jr. earned his first virtual victory of the 2003 season. To celebrate the 87th running of the Indy 500 and the launch of the IndyCar(TM) Series video game for the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system on May 20, Codemasters conducted a pre-race simulation of the race in which Sam Hornish, Jr. emerged triumphant.
    Hornish, Jr. passed two-time and reigning Indianapolis 500 champion, Helio Castroneves, with two laps remaining to win the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing" in Codemasters' IndyCar(TM) Series video game. IndyCar(TM) Series is the first and only next generation video game to feature the full IndyCar(TM) experience along with all of its major circuits, including the "Brickyard" Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Dedicated versions for the Xbox(R) video game system from Microsoft and PC CD-ROM will be available this summer.
    "Sam Hornish, Jr. is one of the hottest drivers on the racing circuit today," said Steve Lux, senior vice president of marketing for Codemasters U.S. "Sam utilized advanced tactics coming into the final stretch. A last minute adjustment to his fuel mix made for a sensational finish."
    IndyCar(TM) Series will include official Indy racing teams and drivers with up to 33 cars racing for the checkered flag, including the debut of Penske Racing, Inc. Enhanced with TV-style presentation and commentary, interactive crowd reactions, challenging and realistic AI components and exhilarating, heart-pounding tracks, players will encounter a true-to-life, authentic Indy racing experience.
    "Codemasters' IndyCar(TM) Series video game captures the thrill and excitement of IndyCar(TM) racing and gives fans the opportunity to experience the sport firsthand in the comfort and safety of their own living rooms," said Nicole Polsky, director of licensing for the IRL. "The game provides an ultra-realistic look at what the real drivers will experience this weekend at the Indy 500."

    ABOUT INDYCAR(TM) SERIES

    Codemasters' IndyCar(TM) Series is the first and only videogame to feature the full season and all of the circuits of the Indy Racing League. Exclusively licensed, and with the full backing and support of the sports governing body, IndyCar(TM) Series will capture the authentic driving experience with TV-style presentation and commentary. The game will feature interactive crowd reactions, challenging and realistic AI opponents, exhilarating tension-packed races, true-to-life physics and realistic damage models.

    ABOUT CODEMASTERS

    Established in 1986, UK-based Codemasters is one of Europe's best-selling and profitable game-makers, developing and publishing titles for the console platforms and PC. Codemasters' products first appeared on US retail shelves in 1999 and since then they have continued to provide energetic, compelling and innovative entertainment to gaming fans of all genres. The company's offerings include MTV Music Generator 2, IndyCar(TM) Series, Pro Race Driver and Operation Flashpoint, which was met with critical acclaim and enormous consumer praise. Richard Darling, the company's Design Director and co-founder, is renowned as one of the most prolific game designers and has been involved in the creation of 60 of the company's staggering #1 titles in the UK. In keeping with the company's mission to remain on the crest of the gaming wave, Codemasters is developing games for online and next generation platforms. Additional information about the company and its products can be found at www.codemasters.com