Among the new features of Test Drive Unlimited 2 are "vehicle damage, weather effects, day and night cycles...a brand new island...all-new race types, vehicle classes," plus an "always live" blend of single-player and multiplayer. Explains Atari: "A revamped single player narrative mode can be played offline or as part of the multiplayer experience."

As part of that so-called "seamless" blend, gamers will be introduced to "a world full of new online content and lifestyle customization," including "the acquisition of property, clothing and all the accoutrements of a luxurious car-based lifestyle."

"After the highly successful Test Drive Unlimited which redefined the genre with massively open online racing, Test Drive Unlimited 2 will be an innovative evolution in racing games, expanding its unparalleled multiplayer experience," Atari CEO Jeff Lapin noted in today's announcement. "The game fits squarely into our strategy of moving online and generating new revenue streams while maintaining our current retail business."