Reflecting NASCAR's new format for choosing its champion – the Chase for the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup – and featuring an all-new dynamic career mode, Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS) announced today that it is shipping NASCAR 2005: Chase for the Cup. The new EA SPORTS title will put players behind the wheel of vehicles from four series including modifieds and trucks as well as a variety of production cars such as the new Chevrolet C5 Corvette and Ford GT's. Online gamers will enjoy enhanced features on the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system and for the first time, Xbox Live Support.

NASCAR 2005: Chase for the Cup's innovative new career mode, Fight to the Top, has drivers battling for opportunities as they race through the ranks of NASCAR Featherlite Modified, NASCAR Craftsman Truck, and NASCAR Busch Series rides before competing for million-dollar purses in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Seriesâ„¢ and a chance to compete in the newly implemented Chase for the Cup that will be featured in the game as the Chase creates more excitement and drama in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series. Players can develop their racing skills and intimidate their rivals on the track with all-new controls such as the Intimidator Button, and continue the action off the track with post-race confrontations, including opportunities to settle disputes with NASCAR stars by racing America's top production cars through city streets. Enhanced online play on PlayStation 2 and Xbox will allow players a chance to race with up to 4 live racers with broad band connections. Fans react to the drama, idolizing both NASCAR heroes and villains with every move, while owners and sponsors recognize talent and reward success.

NASCAR 2005: Chase for the Cup, developed by EA Tiburon is rated "E" for (Everyone) by the ESRB and has an MSRP of $49.95 for the PlayStation 2 console and Xbox video game system from Microsoft, and $39.95 for the Nintendo GameCube.