March 1^st, 2005 (1:15pm) - Namco announced today that the latest installment in its drift racing franchise, "Ridge Racer," has gone gold for the PSP handheld entertainment system. "Ridge Racer" will offer gamers signature "Ridge Racer" drift handling at breakneck speeds and be available in stores at the PSP handheld system’s launch.

"Namco has created a game that takes full advantage of the new platform’s wireless connectivity capabilities and offers gamers new to this genre a unique and exciting gaming experience," said Nobuhiro Kasahara, president and CEO of Namco. "’Ridge Racer’ not only capitalizes on the amazing wireless connectivity of the PSP handheld system, but also is a fun game that racing fans have continued to enjoy over the years."

The latest installment of "Ridge Racer" features 3D graphics, analog steering and course selections comprised of new tracks and classic courses from the "Ridge Racer" series. For the most serious speed demons who have mastered all 39 standard tours within the game, the U.S. version features a new MAX Tour in World Tour Mode, with seven ferociously difficult tours to conquer. "Ridge Racer’s" Wireless Battle permits players to battle it out head-to-head in eight-player races, while an all-new nitrous boosting system allows for faster racing than ever before.

"Ridge Racer" will be available at the launch of the PSP handheld system on March 24th.