Hands-On: NASCAR Heat
EA Sports has owned the NASCAR circuit on consoles by default, but this upstart rookie looks like a serious contender.
From the RVs lining the tracks to the impressive detail in the pits, NASCAR Heat is already packed with authentic stockcar details that should make this rookie challenger a real contender for the console throne. While EA Sports? sharp titles have done an excellent job over the past few years, NASCAR Heat looks like it might elevate the racing experience to the next level. Not only can you race a season that?s accurately modeled on the 2001 Winston Cup series (finally!), Heat sizzles with a whopping 19 real-life tracks. You also find a cool Beat the Heat mode, which poses 36 mini-game-style challenges that help you learn to drive.
The preview version looked very promising, sporting sleek graphics packed with realistic details, high frame rates, and no pop-up. The coolest part was how Heat authentically represented the feeling of racing right in the thick of a huge pack of cars, truly the heart of NASCAR racing. The A.I., though still in need of some final tuning, was aggressive and challenging, and the handling felt smooth but not laughably easy. All told, NASCAR Heat looks like it?s in hot pursuit of this season?s championship.
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