IndyCar Series 2005 E3 Info Sheets Confirm U.S. Release Xbox Exclusive

Sigh. Despite the fact IndyCar hasn’t had a decent game since Papyrus were making them Codemasters, Microsoft and IndyCar have somehow decided it would be best to only release the upcoming IndyCar Series 2005, due for release next month, only for Xbox in the United States.

Xbox screenshots:

Here is the info from E3:

TITLE: IndyCar® Series 2005
FORMAT: Xbox® video game system from Microsoft
RELEASE: June 2004
DEVELOPER: Codemasters

Officially licensed by the Indy Racing League®, IndyCar Series 2005 gets a boost with a host of new features to complement the action-packed oval track racing at speeds over 220mph. The game’s new online racing will allow up to 12 players to go head-to-head and three-wide in the lanes via Xbox Live™. Improved graphics, support for steering wheel peripherals and in-game rear-view mirrors add to the incredible realism of the game.

It is the only game to feature the full IndyCar Series season including the Indianapolis 500®, which allows drivers to compete from Pole Day to Bump Day to race day as one of the 33 drivers in The Greatest Spectacle in Racing®. Racing action is realistic, accessible and authentic down to the very last detail, including TV-style presentation with race introductions by ABC Sports broadcasters.

IndyCar Series 2005 also features an advanced and updated AI system that renders each race as a unique experience. The AI drivers make dynamic strategic racing decisions, defend their position, slipstream to overtake other drivers and even make mistakes.

With its incredible high speeds, dangerous close pack racing, skillful on-track maneuvers and challenging drivers, IndyCar Series 2005 will launch this June for Xbox.

o 15 IndyCar Series tracks, including the Indianapolis Motor Speedway®, Texas Motor Speedway, Chicagoland Speedway, Pikes Peak International Raceway and the newly featured Twin Ring Motegi SuperSpeedway in Japan.
o Head-to-head online racing via Xbox Live (up to 12 players).
o Up to 33 cars on the track simultaneously in single player.
o All-new steering wheel support for third party peripherals with in-game calibration.
o Realistically functioning rear-view mirrors so drivers can watch their back.
o The only game to feature The Greatest Spectacle in Racing: The Indy 500.
o Official drivers, tracks, rules and sponsors of the IndyCar Series.
o Ability to re-create a full season competing as a favorite driver, including Sam Hornish Jr., Gil de Ferran, Al Unser Jr., Scott Dixon, Helio Castroneves, Sarah Fisher and more.
o Updated Masterclass training mode narrated by Bombardier and Autosport Rookie of the Year Dan Wheldon.