THQ has today announced the North American release of the PlayStation 2 and GameCube versions of Hot Wheels World Race. The game, which features an original theme song by the band Smash Mouth, is also scheduled for release on the PC and Game Boy Advance later this month.

　　"Hot Wheels has continued to evolve and thrive as a true lifestyle brand for 35 years, boasting a strength and longevity nearly unparalleled in the toy space," said Peter Dille, senior vice president of worldwide marketing at THQ. "THQ is thrilled to bring Hot Wheels World Race to a growing mass-market gaming audience in conjunction with Mattel's Hot Wheels 35th anniversary marketing push."

　　"We're excited to work with THQ to bring gamers of all ages this exciting new interactive Hot Wheels experience, based on our line of World Race home videos and DVDs," added Amy Boylan, senior vice president of new media at Mattel. "Hot Wheels are the coolest cars on earth, and we are pleased to offer gamers of all ages the experience to race and compete with their favorite cars on the major gaming consoles."

　　Hot Wheels World Race was developed by Climax and features no fewer than 35 authentic Hot Wheels cars for players to race. The futuristic tracks in the game are designed to encourage players to perform stunts as they compete and also offer players plenty of opportunities to search for hidden shortcuts. For more information, check out our previous coverage of the game.