GRID, the all-new exhilarating racing experience from Codemasters Studios recently launched in the U.S. and throughout Europe to critical acclaim, is to be fully localized for release in Japan later this year, Codemasters announced today.

One of the highest rated racing videogames of recent years*, GRID already features Japanese specific content, including Drift and Touge race events and locations that include Tokyo Shibuya, Yokohama and Haruna. The Playstation 3 computer entertainment system and the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft editions of game will now be adapted to include Japanese speech and text throughout in readiness for its arrival in the market this winter.

"As Codemasters continues to gain significant ground in the global videogame business, the release of GRID in Japan will also see the arrival of the Codemasters brand as a publishing label in the market," said Rod Cousens, CEO, Codemasters.  "We have pursued options in the market for some time and this announcement is but a first indication of our ambitions in that market."

At launch, the Japanese edition of GRID will come complete with a full copy of the flagship off-road racer, DiRT™. The dual offering is expected to be well received, as previous Codemasters racing franchise titles have enjoyed success in the market when published under license.

"The recent success of key western titles in Japan is indicative of the current trend where Japanese gamers are not only more aware of popular western gaming brands but actively seeking them out," continued Cousens. "With GRID set to be fully localized and arrive bundled with DiRT, it is an opportune time for Codemasters to enjoy brand success in Japan."

*Source: www.gamerankings.com