MotoGP 3 info, screens

THQ has revealed more details of the latest instalment in the MotoGP series, including news that it's set to "revolutionise" multiplayer gaming. There are also some new screenshots for both the Xbox and PC versions.

MotoGP: Ultimate Racing Technology 3 boasts something called "embedded gameplay" - a feature designed to let you switch seamlessly between online and offline play, which sounds like a trademark-able reflection of the series' increasingly progressive stance on Live play.

It works like this: when you set up a race against NPCs, the game will automatically check to see if there's an online race about to commence - and if so, whether or not the participating riders match your skill level. If it's all good, you'll be given the option to join in.

"MotoGP: Ultimate Racing Technology 3 will change the face of multiplayer gaming," said Tony Beckwith, president of developer Climax.

"Never before have gamers been able to jump in and out of the multiplayer arena with such ease and we're confident it will strengthen the game's appeal to a much wider audience."

The third instalment in the MotoGP series will also bring street racing to the series for the first time in the form of Extreme mode, which lets you practice your skills in an urban setting before having a go at the Grand Prix. It features 16 circuits and 16 bikes, all of which can be customised and upgraded to suit your driving style.

Grand Prix mode offers fully licensed riders, tracks and bikes from the real-life 2004 MotoGp season, and up to 20 riders can take part in each race. There's also a split-screen multiplayer option for up to four opponents.

MotoGP: Ultimate Racing Technology 3 is slated for release in early September.