Full Race Driver: GRID multiplayer details

Will feature 32 online race events on 80 circuits at 15 intercontinental locations.

Codemasters has today unveiled the full online gameplay options for its imminent racing title, Race Driver: GRID. Up to twelve players will be able to compete in 32 online race events on 80 circuits at 15 intercontinental locations.

Online racing is also fully customisable, with players able to switch damage on or off, enable catch-up mode, set driver aids and allow public and private games.

"Race Driver: GRID online is the ultimate expression of what the game is all about - incident-packed, aggressive, wheel-to-wheel racing," said Ralph Fulton, Chief Game Designer, Race Driver: GRID. "Our wide range of motorsport disciplines, stunning locations and full damage 12-player races make for a uniquely spectacular race experience and our immersive new ranking system rewards player skill and deepens the challenge online."

Online play in GRID has been geared towards ensuring players spend as much time as possible on the track, rather than stuck in menus. Codemasters says players will be able to "rapidly find the event they want and a slick voting system, matchmaking mechanism and seamless host migration means gamers find competitive races quickly and sessions stay together longer."

The game will also feature a new online ranking system that will chart players' progress as they advance from Rookie to Legend. In addition to online leaderboards for fastest laps, players will be able to download ghost laps performed by the game's fastest drivers. A spectator mode will also be included, making it possible to check out the opposition.

Race Driver: GRID will be released in Europe on May 30 for Xbox 360, PS3 and PC. A Nintendo DS version will follow at a later date.