NASCAR Heat 2002’s outstanding graphics and sound are also attributable to the power of Xbox. Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound gives players the ability to not only hear NASCAR greats like Jeff Gordon and Rusty Wallace creeping up on their rear bumper, but to practically feel them. Photo-realistic graphics, made possible by the state-of-the-art graphics processor in Xbox, further blur the line between fantasy and reality for the player, providing the most realistic NASCAR console game experience ever.

“With the amazing graphics and sound capabilities of Xbox we’re getting very close to being able to suspend disbelief in games,” said Nancy MacIntyre, vice president of marketing for Infogrames’ Beverly label. “NASCAR Heat 2002 blurs the line between the game and what a fan might watch on TV. The graphics and sound are so real it is almost like reaching into a televised NASCAR race and taking control of your favorite car.”

Through the use of advanced satellite photos, the track geometry of the 2001 NASCAR races jumps to life with unparalleled accuracy ­ including the newly redesigned Sears Point road-course track. The stars of NASCAR Heat 2002’s rides have also been replicated in minute detail with their latest paint schemes. All car settings are adjustable to get the most from these high-horsepower monsters on race day.

For anyone needing a little advice on race day, track-tip videos from top drivers like Sterling Marlin, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Kevin Harvick and more give players the information they’ll need to beat the pack and come in first. Developed by Monster Games, Inc., NASCAR Heat 2002 for Xbox has an ESRB rating of ‘E’ for Everyone and is currently available at most major retail outlets for an estimated retail price of $49.99.