It may be a bit morbid, but there are few things that NASCAR fans enjoy more than a good wreck. Assuming all the drivers walkaway unscathed, that is. NASCAR The Game 2011 is well aware of the fact, and is bringing a realistic approach to all damage in the game, both monumental and minor. Fans may not be that interested in seeing their cars destroyed after they’ve applied their own unique paint scheme though, so the game won’t be without some tough decisions. The newest trailers on damage and custom paint schemes have to be seen, as they bring along a good dose of gameplay footage as well.

Custom paint jobs are nothing new for racing titles, with Forza Motorsport just one of many to turn simple vinyls into full-on works of art. With NASCAR The Game 2011, Eutechnyx understands just how important style is to the attitude of the motorsport, and one of the best ways for fans to keep track of their favorite drivers.

Fans of NASCAR aren’t likely to change the paint schemes of the most famous drivers, but those who choose to create their own NASCAR legend will have complete freedom to customize their rides however they see fit.

Aside from requiring a great deal of concentration and dedication, the paint and decal systems of many modern racers are downright intimidating to many beginners. Since NASCAR is without a doubt the most widely-appealing form of racing, the paint system for NASCAR The Game has to be as fun as it is approachable.

Take a look at the trailer to see the ways Eutechnyx is looking to solve the problem:

The opportunity to recreate classic paint schemes like Mario or Michael Andretti’s, Ricky Bobby’s Wonder Bread car, or even Cole Trickle’s City Chevrolet is enough to get us convinced the system is needed, but NASCAR The Game is bringing realism in plenty of ways as well.

With so many racing titles in the mix, developers have no choice but to rely on a handful of unique touches to differentiate themselves. Damage is undoubtedly one of the ways to do just that, and one of NASCAR fans most loved visceral aspects of the sport. Damage and wrecks are top priorities for the developers, but don’t take our word for it:

There are plenty of reasons for racing fans to take their time in deciding which upcoming game to invest in, but the combination of realism and creativity that Eutechnyx is bringing makes a compelling case. For those who tend to steer clear of simulations and arcade games, NASCAR seems to offer a good mix of the two. Shift 2 Unleashed looks to do the same, so their head-to-head release will be an interesting one.

What’s your take on the team’s approach to damage and customization? Is the game gaining ground in your estimation, or is NASCAR just not your thing?

NASCAR The Game 2011 is set to release on March 29 for the Xbox 360, PS3, and Wii.