Career mode returns from previous games in the series. The player takes control of a custom driver and races to get sponsors, equipment for his garage, and respect from other drivers.[4]
Season mode allows players to take control of either a custom driver, or an existing driver for a season or more, with custom rules and schedules.[4]
SpeedZone is a mode in which players can hone their skills in passing, blocking, drafting, as well as time trials.[3]
Lightning Challenge is a mode in which the player takes control of a driver and race in a situation that occurred in the 2002 Winston Cup and 2003 Winston Cup seasons to that particular driver. It also includes a video with Michael Waltrip as the reporter, and beating these challenges unlocks new Thunder Plates, which unlock new tracks, fantasy drivers, Busch Series drivers from the 2003 season, as well as legendary drivers.[4]
Another new game mode is Online mode, where players can race online if they have an Internet connection and adapter. Microphone support also was available on PC and PlayStation 2. This feature is not available on Xbox and PS1.[3]
Thunder License, a tutorial mode featuring NASCAR legend Richard Petty, in which the player chooses a driver and follows him along a racing linearound the track, with voice commentary by Petty. The racing line can also be toggled in Race Now mode.