American-based open-wheel racing fans, this one is for us. A dedicated INDYCAR SERIES video game is finally in the works.
Motorsport Games announced on Thursday that the popular U.S.-based open-wheel racing series will have their first devoted game in more than 17 years. The NTT INDYCAR SERIES plays host to one of the biggest, if not the biggest, race in all of motorsport – the Indianapolis 500.
The license is for both gaming and esports, with the intention being exclusive development of official INDYCAR esports events alongside the new game. Competitions with INDYCAR drivers could start as early as this year, and more information on that will come at a later date. The upcoming title will launch with PlayStation, Xbox, and PC, although the specific consoles were not named.
“Motorsport Games and INDYCAR are thrilled to provide fans with a long-overdue dedicated gaming experience,” said Dmitry Kozko, CEO of Motorsport Games.
“After decades of world-class racing, we cannot think of a more deserving league for a video game franchise. INDYCAR shares our commitment to bringing authentic experiences to motor racing enthusiasts. Fans can anticipate the NTT INDYCAR SERIES to meet the same level of excellence and immersive gameplay they expect from Motorsport Games.”
The last official INDYCAR game, IndyCar Series 2005, was released in June 2004 by Codemasters. NTT INDYCAR SERIES has licensed content available to drive in popular games such as iRacing and Forza Motorsport 7, but nothing on their own in quite some time. Most recently, iRacing hosted an official NTT INDYCAR SERIES Pro Invitational Challenge esports series.
“Our partnership with Motorsport Games will bring the fierce competition of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES to a global gaming audience hungry for quality motorsports content,” said Mark Miles, President & CEO, Penske Entertainment.
Like the talent and depth of our field, INDYCAR’s universe continues to expand and grow rapidly. Motorsport Games is an industry leader with a track record of innovation, and we know our fans will have 2023 and the debut of this new NTT INDYCAR SERIES video game circled on their calendars.”
Not much else is known at this time, but the game is two years away. 2023 is also the year when INDYCAR will introduce a 2.4-litre hybrid ruleset, bringing electrification to the series. The announcement image features Chip Ganassi Racing’s Honda driven by Alex Palou.
“I am super excited our fans will be able to bring the NTT INDYCAR SERIES into their homes with this new video game franchise,” said current Arrow McLaren SP driver Patricio O’Ward. “This is such a great opportunity for fans to connect to our series even more, from watching us on the weekends to playing as us on their favorite tracks whenever they want.”
Motorsport Games recently teased images from their upcoming NASCAR title due later this year. With upcoming releases expected for NASCAR, British Touring Car Championship and Le Mans, plus the addition of rFactor 2 and KartKraft, adding INDYCAR builds their portfolio further as racing games and esports continue to prosper.
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