DESC: The first 128-bit iteration of the award-winning NASCAR series breaks onto the PS2 with NASCAR 2001. Designed from the ground up, NASCAR 2001 duplicates the key driving points and strategies of some of the biggest names in racing. Thanks to independent artificial intelligence routines geared towards each racer's personality, the days of one-dimensional AI are over as older drivers wisely hold back until the most significant of moments, while the rookies and speed demons are more prone to charging recklessly into turns. Thirty-five active drivers with their respective cars (complete with sponsors) are available to rip around 14 different tracks as well -- including night races and Daytona itself, while body deformations, particle effects (like smoke and fire), sparks, tire marks on the road, and wall marks complete the total NASCAR experience