Racing
Gran Turismo 3 A-spec
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2001
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Sony's award-winning racing series makes its debut on the PlayStation 2 with Gran Turismo 3 A-Spec. Taking the driving engine and interface of the 1998 PlayStation original, the game offers enhanced visuals using the system's 128-bit processing power. With over 150 cars available from actual car companies, some of which include Ford, Fiat, Audi, BMW and Chrysler, Gran Turismo 3 offers players a choice of models based on their real-life counterparts, from the car bodies to the individual engines.
As before, Gran Turismo 3 A Spec is divided into an Arcade Mode and a Simulation Mode. Both modes have a variety of updated courses from the previous two titles as well as a few new tracks. The Simulation Mode has players purchasing and racing for money, with 60 different racing circuits divided into beginning, amateur, and championship difficulty levels, as well as ten rally and ten endurance rounds. In order to enter many of the races, players will have to earn certain licenses by passing a series of tests, some of which involve taking turns and stopping correctly within a time limit.
The soundtrack features artists ranging from Snoop Dogg to Lenny Kravitz to Judas Priest. Players can also alter their gameplay view from a camera positioned behind the car to a first-person perspective inside the driver's seat. As with others in the series, Gran Turismo 3 supports vibration feedback and full analog control. A memory card is required in order to save progress, statistics, and accumulated cars. ~ J.C. Barnes, All Game Guide
As before, Gran Turismo 3 A Spec is divided into an Arcade Mode and a Simulation Mode. Both modes have a variety of updated courses from the previous two titles as well as a few new tracks. The Simulation Mode has players purchasing and racing for money, with 60 different racing circuits divided into beginning, amateur, and championship difficulty levels, as well as ten rally and ten endurance rounds. In order to enter many of the races, players will have to earn certain licenses by passing a series of tests, some of which involve taking turns and stopping correctly within a time limit.
The soundtrack features artists ranging from Snoop Dogg to Lenny Kravitz to Judas Priest. Players can also alter their gameplay view from a camera positioned behind the car to a first-person perspective inside the driver's seat. As with others in the series, Gran Turismo 3 supports vibration feedback and full analog control. A memory card is required in order to save progress, statistics, and accumulated cars. ~ J.C. Barnes, All Game Guide
NASCAR Heat 2002
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2001
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
The second NASCAR game on the PS2 features 25 professional drivers as they compete in a full 2001 NASCAR Winston Cup Season. A total of 19 authentic tracks are available, including Daytona International Speedway and Watkins Glen, to race in five modes of play: Beat the Heat, Race the Pro, Single Race, Championship, and Head-to-Head. Each mode can be raced on an expert setting, allowing players to tweak their car's weight, shocks, springs, tires, camber, gears, and more to improve overall performance.
Beat the Heat is a series of 36 scenarios to complete for a gold, silver, or bronze trophy. Race the Pro is structured similarly to a time trial in that players are trying to beat the best laps from a roster of 11 pro drivers. A ghost image of an opponent will appear on the course to help gauge speed. Single Race is one race on a choice of tracks, with options in the number of laps, computer AI, wear factor for tires, racing flags, and car performance.
The Championship mode features an adjustable season (full, medium, or short) as players earn points for top finishes on their way to the Winston Cup. After each race, a standings screen will appear with the overall time and points earned for each driver. The final mode, Head-to-Head, is the same as Single Race but against a friend on a split-screen. In order to save options, standings, and season progress, a full 8MB of space is required. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Beat the Heat is a series of 36 scenarios to complete for a gold, silver, or bronze trophy. Race the Pro is structured similarly to a time trial in that players are trying to beat the best laps from a roster of 11 pro drivers. A ghost image of an opponent will appear on the course to help gauge speed. Single Race is one race on a choice of tracks, with options in the number of laps, computer AI, wear factor for tires, racing flags, and car performance.
The Championship mode features an adjustable season (full, medium, or short) as players earn points for top finishes on their way to the Winston Cup. After each race, a standings screen will appear with the overall time and points earned for each driver. The final mode, Head-to-Head, is the same as Single Race but against a friend on a split-screen. In order to save options, standings, and season progress, a full 8MB of space is required. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
The Getaway
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2003
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Originally conceived as a PlayStation title, The Getaway is a mission-based game set in London, England. Inspired by such films as The Long Good Friday and 1968's Get Carter, The Getaway has players slipping into the shoes of an ex-con named Mark Hammond. Hammond finds himself reluctantly drawn into a life of crime again after his wife is brutally murdered and his son abducted by the Bethnal Street Mob.
Now Hammond must complete 12 missions on behalf of a once-powerful crime boss named Charlie Jolson, whose control over London's East End is as frail as his health. If Hammond fails to comply, he'll never see his son again. The result is a cinematic adventure encompassing car chases, gunfights, stealth, and a second playable character in the form of embittered Detective Frank Carter, whose 12-mission storyline runs concurrent with Hammond's.
The 3D city captures an estimated 20 square miles of London, complete with authentic storefronts and landmarks. Players will also be able to walk into mission-related buildings such as restaurants, pubs, warehouses, and hotels during the course of the game. Actors were filmed using an advanced form of motion-capture technique, where up to five people could be recorded at once (along with their dialogue) inside actual sets. Each actor's face was also digitally scanned and mapped to his or her character model.
The main adventure in The Getaway consists of 52 objectives spread across the 24 missions, with driving representing nearly half of the action. The game distinguishes itself from others in the genre by its lack of on-screen indicators for targeting enemies or viewing health. Instead players must rely on subtle visual cues rather than obvious meters to advance through the game. Once the main mode is complete, players can embark on a scenic tour of London to visit various landmarks and notable attractions without worrying about time or having to complete objectives. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Now Hammond must complete 12 missions on behalf of a once-powerful crime boss named Charlie Jolson, whose control over London's East End is as frail as his health. If Hammond fails to comply, he'll never see his son again. The result is a cinematic adventure encompassing car chases, gunfights, stealth, and a second playable character in the form of embittered Detective Frank Carter, whose 12-mission storyline runs concurrent with Hammond's.
The 3D city captures an estimated 20 square miles of London, complete with authentic storefronts and landmarks. Players will also be able to walk into mission-related buildings such as restaurants, pubs, warehouses, and hotels during the course of the game. Actors were filmed using an advanced form of motion-capture technique, where up to five people could be recorded at once (along with their dialogue) inside actual sets. Each actor's face was also digitally scanned and mapped to his or her character model.
The main adventure in The Getaway consists of 52 objectives spread across the 24 missions, with driving representing nearly half of the action. The game distinguishes itself from others in the genre by its lack of on-screen indicators for targeting enemies or viewing health. Instead players must rely on subtle visual cues rather than obvious meters to advance through the game. Once the main mode is complete, players can embark on a scenic tour of London to visit various landmarks and notable attractions without worrying about time or having to complete objectives. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Starsky & Hutch
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2003
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Released nearly 30 years after the debut of the television series that inspired it (and several months before the 2004 feature film remake), Starsky & Hutch is a mission-based driving game featuring the edgy, undercover cop duo and their trademark red and white Gran Torino. In the style of the TV series, core gameplay involves high-speed chases through a three-dimensional Bay City. Players are motivated to perform big jumps and other high-speed feats by more than just the goal of catching the criminal, however. Starsky and Hutch must do their job with style -- or not at all.
As the heroes zip through crowded thoroughfares and crooked alleys, a "Viewer Rating" (VR) score represents the level of excitement the car chase is producing for a theoretical television audience. A steady string of successful stunts will keep the rating high, but viewers will be bored by drivers who play it safe. If the VR level drops too low, the mission is lost. Beyond the driving challenges, the game also features a good deal of shooting. One cop will draw his pistol and hang out the passenger window to auto-aim at various targets while his partner drives. In two-player games, one gamer can take charge of the shooting while the other controls the car. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide
As the heroes zip through crowded thoroughfares and crooked alleys, a "Viewer Rating" (VR) score represents the level of excitement the car chase is producing for a theoretical television audience. A steady string of successful stunts will keep the rating high, but viewers will be bored by drivers who play it safe. If the VR level drops too low, the mission is lost. Beyond the driving challenges, the game also features a good deal of shooting. One cop will draw his pistol and hang out the passenger window to auto-aim at various targets while his partner drives. In two-player games, one gamer can take charge of the shooting while the other controls the car. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide
Quantum Redshift
- Platform:
- Xbox
- Release Date:
- 2002
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Quantum Redshift is a futuristic racing game in the vein of Wipeout, where players have the added ability of using weapons to knock out the competition as they approach speeds near 650 mph. Set 100 years in the future, the world of Quantum Redshift is focused on a racing tournament that takes place across 16 tracks throughout the planet. Seven pilots are initially selectable, with additional characters opening up after winning specific events.
Each character also has a specific nemesis, such as a spurned lover or a rival candidate up for re-election, who will taunt and act hostile toward the player. This added drama will unfold through cinematic cut-scenes in between races. Weapons found along the courses range from plasma bolts to tidal wives, and can be either offensive or defensive in nature. Players will also be able to unlock five racing speeds and can battle against up to three friends on a split screen. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Each character also has a specific nemesis, such as a spurned lover or a rival candidate up for re-election, who will taunt and act hostile toward the player. This added drama will unfold through cinematic cut-scenes in between races. Weapons found along the courses range from plasma bolts to tidal wives, and can be either offensive or defensive in nature. Players will also be able to unlock five racing speeds and can battle against up to three friends on a split screen. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
ATV: Quad Power Racing 2
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2003
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
AKA Acclaim takes the extreme approach to off-road four-wheeling in ATV: Quad Power Racing 2. In addition to other improvements, this sequel to the 2000 original features ten real-life professional riders and over 40 real-world sponsors. Races take place on ten tracks set in five international locations. For added competition, players can punch and kick each other as they race around the track. Tight control and a forgiving physics model are designed for action-oriented, arcade-style racing, with big air jumps, mud-spewing power slides, and more than 20 different freestyle tricks. ~ All Game Guide
ATV: Quad Power Racing 2
- Platform:
- Xbox
- Release Date:
- 2003
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
The sequel to 2000's ATV: Quad Power Racing on PlayStation continues the off-road action on 17 tracks across five international environments. An arcade-style approach offers players an opportunity to catch big air off jumps, power-slide around corners, and perform more than 20 different tricks for style points. Players can choose from ten professional riders, including Kory Ellis, Tim Farr, and Dana Creech, as they enter competitive races against the computer or their friends in a variety of multiplayer modes. ~ All Game Guide
Project Gotham Racing 2
- Platform:
- Xbox
- Release Date:
- 2003
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
This sequel to the million-selling Project Gotham Racing features officially licensed sports cars from such manufacturers as Ferrari and Porsche. Over 50 automobiles are available to race as or against in a variety of new cities, including venues in Hong Kong and Edinburgh. The basic structure of its predecessor remains intact, meaning players will compete for Kudos points by demonstrating a number of skills while racing. Of course, new techniques will have to mastered to earn additional Kudos, and the ranking system has been redesigned to better reflect a player's true racing ability. Multiplayer competition is supported through Microsoft's Xbox Live broadband service. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
IHRA Motorsports Drag Racing 2
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2002
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
"Nothin' but attitude!" proclaims the PS2 box cover for IHRA Motorsports: Drag Racing 2, the follow-up to 2000's IHRA Motorsports for the PC and 2001's IHRA Motorsports: Drag Racing for the PlayStation. After selecting from more than 50 cars -- including classic, late model, funny cars, pro stock, pro mod, and top fuel categories -- players can race in practice, single race, event, or season modes. Customization isn't just limited to the 70 vehicle components available, as weather conditions (humidity, wind direction, wind speed, barometer, altitude, and temperature) also enter into the mix.
Quarter-mile and 1/8 mile tracks from around the United States are used in single-event racing, with users compiling a list of tracks for later use in seasonal mode. The Shop is "tweaking" heaven for accomplished dragsters, offering a host of customization possibilities for chassis (body style, paint job), engine (block, pistons, valves), transmission (gear set, clutch), suspension (coil, spring, steering), tires (size, density, width), devices (throttle stops, delay box, rev limiter, shift lights), and inspection (rule compliance). Players can customize dashboard displays, as well as name, choice of parachute release, and burnout staging.
Race options include setting the ability level of computer-controlled drivers (ranging from rookie to pro), number of racers per event (2 to 64), end-of-race videos, and level of realistic damage (none, partial, or full). Nearly every aspect of any car can be rebuilt or modified in the Shop, and a handicap system is available to equalize competition in some categories. The manual also contains five tips for developing consistent and good reaction times for drag racers looking for that extra edge. ~ Michael L. House, All Game Guide
Quarter-mile and 1/8 mile tracks from around the United States are used in single-event racing, with users compiling a list of tracks for later use in seasonal mode. The Shop is "tweaking" heaven for accomplished dragsters, offering a host of customization possibilities for chassis (body style, paint job), engine (block, pistons, valves), transmission (gear set, clutch), suspension (coil, spring, steering), tires (size, density, width), devices (throttle stops, delay box, rev limiter, shift lights), and inspection (rule compliance). Players can customize dashboard displays, as well as name, choice of parachute release, and burnout staging.
Race options include setting the ability level of computer-controlled drivers (ranging from rookie to pro), number of racers per event (2 to 64), end-of-race videos, and level of realistic damage (none, partial, or full). Nearly every aspect of any car can be rebuilt or modified in the Shop, and a handicap system is available to equalize competition in some categories. The manual also contains five tips for developing consistent and good reaction times for drag racers looking for that extra edge. ~ Michael L. House, All Game Guide
Freestyle MetalX
- Platform:
- Xbox
- Release Date:
- 2003
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Billed as the "first freestyle motocross" video game, Freestyle MetalX offers eight go-anywhere environments filled with objects like swimming pools and skyscrapers to trick off. Since there are no limitations imposed on players, they are free to smash windows, plow through parks, and do things that would otherwise be illegal. In addition to riding across real-world locales, players can participate in side events like bus jumping, wheelies, and zipping through tunnels of fire to earn some notoriety and cash for their character. Money can then be used to purchase new equipment including bikes, clothing, accessories, and more.
Nine professional riders are available to play as or against, including such legends as Kris "The Rock" Rourke and Ronnie "Kung Fu" Faisst. Seven generic riders are also selectable, bringing the total lineup of characters to 16. Players must guide these characters through various skill-based challenges in order to unlock the remaining courses. Once unlocked, the eight levels seamlessly connect with one another to form one sprawling environment. Within each region are special events entitled Big Air, Freestyle, Hill Climb, and Race, which typically involve performing as many aerial stunts as possible to outscore the competition.
Freestyle MetalX also features a number of sub-games to add some diversity to the racing action. Players will ride off a cliff to see how many tricks they can perform during their rapid decent, become a human dart while hurling themselves toward an enormous dartboard, and even participate in a game of motocross pinball. Those tired of the existing courses can create their own arena using the built-in level editor, and players can learn more about the game via the included making-of documentary as well as other exclusive DVD content. No matter which mode is selected, players can listen to hard-driving music from such bands as Megadeath, Mötley Crüe, Motörhead, and Twisted Sister. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Nine professional riders are available to play as or against, including such legends as Kris "The Rock" Rourke and Ronnie "Kung Fu" Faisst. Seven generic riders are also selectable, bringing the total lineup of characters to 16. Players must guide these characters through various skill-based challenges in order to unlock the remaining courses. Once unlocked, the eight levels seamlessly connect with one another to form one sprawling environment. Within each region are special events entitled Big Air, Freestyle, Hill Climb, and Race, which typically involve performing as many aerial stunts as possible to outscore the competition.
Freestyle MetalX also features a number of sub-games to add some diversity to the racing action. Players will ride off a cliff to see how many tricks they can perform during their rapid decent, become a human dart while hurling themselves toward an enormous dartboard, and even participate in a game of motocross pinball. Those tired of the existing courses can create their own arena using the built-in level editor, and players can learn more about the game via the included making-of documentary as well as other exclusive DVD content. No matter which mode is selected, players can listen to hard-driving music from such bands as Megadeath, Mötley Crüe, Motörhead, and Twisted Sister. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Freestyle MetalX
- Platform:
- Nintendo GameCube
- Release Date:
- 2003
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Billed as the "first freestyle motocross" video game, Freestyle MetalX offers eight go-anywhere environments filled with objects like swimming pools and skyscrapers to trick off. Since there are no limitations imposed on players, they are free to smash windows, plow through parks, and do things that would otherwise be illegal. In addition to riding across real-world locales, players can participate in side events like bus jumping, wheelies, and zipping through tunnels of fire to earn some notoriety and cash for their character. Money can then be used to purchase new equipment including bikes, clothing, accessories, and more.
Nine professional riders are available to play as or against, including such legends as Kris "The Rock" Rourke and Ronnie "Kung Fu" Faisst. Seven generic riders are also selectable, bringing the total lineup of characters to 16. Players must guide these characters through various skill-based challenges in order to unlock the remaining courses. Once unlocked, the eight levels seamlessly connect with one another to form one sprawling environment. Within each region are special events entitled Big Air, Freestyle, Hill Climb, and Race, which typically involve performing as many aerial stunts as possible to outscore the competition.
Freestyle MetalX also features a number of sub-games to add some diversity to the racing action. Players will ride off a cliff to see how many tricks they can perform during their rapid decent, become a human dart while hurling themselves toward an enormous dartboard, and even participate in a game of motocross pinball. Those tired of the existing courses can create their own arena using the built-in level editor. No matter which mode is selected, players can listen to hard-driving music from such bands as Megadeath, Mötley Crüe, Motörhead, and Twisted Sister. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Nine professional riders are available to play as or against, including such legends as Kris "The Rock" Rourke and Ronnie "Kung Fu" Faisst. Seven generic riders are also selectable, bringing the total lineup of characters to 16. Players must guide these characters through various skill-based challenges in order to unlock the remaining courses. Once unlocked, the eight levels seamlessly connect with one another to form one sprawling environment. Within each region are special events entitled Big Air, Freestyle, Hill Climb, and Race, which typically involve performing as many aerial stunts as possible to outscore the competition.
Freestyle MetalX also features a number of sub-games to add some diversity to the racing action. Players will ride off a cliff to see how many tricks they can perform during their rapid decent, become a human dart while hurling themselves toward an enormous dartboard, and even participate in a game of motocross pinball. Those tired of the existing courses can create their own arena using the built-in level editor. No matter which mode is selected, players can listen to hard-driving music from such bands as Megadeath, Mötley Crüe, Motörhead, and Twisted Sister. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
XGRA: Extreme-G Racing
- Platform:
- Nintendo GameCube
- Release Date:
- 2003
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Acclaim's Extreme-G series of futuristic racing games continues with the release of XGRA, short for Extreme Gravity Racing Association. In addition to the high-speed races across 14 twisting, loop-filled courses, the game emphasizes a league-style atmosphere, complete with real-time commentary during competition, a fleshed-out background on the sport's history, and the ability to compete for lucrative contracts by catering to corporate sponsors. The setting is the year 2080, and the main attraction is the SiNN Global Championship, where cutthroat racers from around the world gather to compete in a deadly season of weapons-based racing.
The career mode, referred to as 2080 Season, features multiple race types across five classes of competition. Each new format features a twist: endurance races extend the number of laps, peacekeeper races remove each cycle's weapons, while speed limited races ban the use of turbo. Other formats include extreme weather races, which affect handling, burn off races, which reduce the number of laps, and warmonger races, which add gun turrets on the courses and reward those who kill off the competition. As players progress through a career they can earn contracts with special incentives. Instead of wearing apparel, however, players receive extra cash for targeting specific rivals on the course.
Two additional game modes are supported: Arcade and Time Trial. Arcade races allow up to four players to compete on courses unlocked in the career mode. Time Trial also supports four players simultaneously as they attempt to shatter course records. XGRA features a total of eight racing teams, each featuring signature weapons, sponsors, and handling tendencies. By winning championships or by completing secondary objectives such as destroying a rival company's billboard, players can unlock new, more powerful bikes with improved speed, shielding, acceleration, and more. There are also two distinct soundtracks selectable from the options menu: a choice of rock or dance music. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
The career mode, referred to as 2080 Season, features multiple race types across five classes of competition. Each new format features a twist: endurance races extend the number of laps, peacekeeper races remove each cycle's weapons, while speed limited races ban the use of turbo. Other formats include extreme weather races, which affect handling, burn off races, which reduce the number of laps, and warmonger races, which add gun turrets on the courses and reward those who kill off the competition. As players progress through a career they can earn contracts with special incentives. Instead of wearing apparel, however, players receive extra cash for targeting specific rivals on the course.
Two additional game modes are supported: Arcade and Time Trial. Arcade races allow up to four players to compete on courses unlocked in the career mode. Time Trial also supports four players simultaneously as they attempt to shatter course records. XGRA features a total of eight racing teams, each featuring signature weapons, sponsors, and handling tendencies. By winning championships or by completing secondary objectives such as destroying a rival company's billboard, players can unlock new, more powerful bikes with improved speed, shielding, acceleration, and more. There are also two distinct soundtracks selectable from the options menu: a choice of rock or dance music. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Crash Nitro Kart
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2003
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
The orange wonder from down under is back for another adventure, this time from behind the wheel of a go-kart. Inspired by 1999's hit CTR (Crash Team Racing) for the original PlayStation, Crash Nitro Kart offers four-player racing action in a variety of game modes. Players will compete in cup challenges, time trials, and an assortment of multiplayer battles. While speeding along the predominately outdoor environments, players can run over such items as wumpa fruit to increase speed, ramps to leap over chasms, and crates to acquire power-ups for offense or defense. In addition to Crash Bandicoot, featured characters include Crunch, Coco, Dingodile, Neo Cortex, and more. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Demon Driver
- Platform:
- Game Boy Advance
- Release Date:
- 2004
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Demon Driver is a top-down racing game with eight car types and a choice of 32 tracks. Each vehicle offers variable ratings in speed, acceleration, and handling, and players must race against three rivals in a series of ten laps. Twists on the genre include collectible coins, oil slicks, and a temperature gauge that gradually diminishes the longer the gas button is depressed, meaning players must carefully balance speed with the risk of overheating their engine.
Running over coins found along each course is necessary to purchase vehicle upgrades in the areas of tires, engines, brakes, and cooling systems. Each of the 32 tracks ranges in the type of terrain encountered, from asphalt and mud to sand and ice. Water power-ups are also strewn about the courses, which decrease an engine's temperature once acquired. Up to four players can compete simultaneously using the Game Link Cable. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Running over coins found along each course is necessary to purchase vehicle upgrades in the areas of tires, engines, brakes, and cooling systems. Each of the 32 tracks ranges in the type of terrain encountered, from asphalt and mud to sand and ice. Water power-ups are also strewn about the courses, which decrease an engine's temperature once acquired. Up to four players can compete simultaneously using the Game Link Cable. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
The Simpsons: Hit & Run
- Platform:
- Xbox
- Release Date:
- 2003
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
The Simpsons: Hit & Run takes players on a trip through the colorful streets of Springfield in a mission-based racing game with the ability to continue objectives on foot. Something is amiss in Springfield, as strange crop circles have been reported and people are suddenly disappearing. After Homer notices a mysterious satellite-equipped van parked outside his home, he takes it upon himself to discover the truth behind these unsettling events. A total of 17 characters are available for the mission-based driving sequences, with Homer, Marge, Lisa, Bart, and Apu able to leave their cars and enter such buildings as Moe's Tavern, the Kwik-E-Mart, Kamp Krusty, and the Springfield Power Plant. To lend a degree of authenticity to the game, the animated show's original cast recorded the voice-overs for their respective characters. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Need for Speed: Underground
- Platform:
- Xbox
- Release Date:
- 2003
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
EA GAMES' vaunted Need for Speed series, which first hit the gas in 1995 on the 3DO platform, continues with the multi-platform release of Need for Speed: Underground. As the title suggests, players are embroiled in the shadowy world of illicit street racing. Players will enlist in various underground events held on city streets at dusk. While battling rivals in drag races or more conventional pursuits, players can earn cash used to purchase an assortment of vehicle modifications. Over 20 licensed cars are available to tweak and customize from such manufacturers as Mitsubishi, Toyota, and Suburu, among others. Developed by the same team responsible for 2002's Hot Pursuit 2, the game also features official parts from Bilstein, Audiobahn, Dazz Motorsport, and other providers. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Corvette
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2004
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
The first console game to exclusively feature the Corvette races onto PlayStation 2 with a selection of 80 authentic car models and a cross-country trip down the infamous Route 66. Players will start in Chicago and make their way toward Los Angeles while avoiding numerous obstacles, or they can challenge multiple opponents on a variety of tracks as they attempt to set the fastest lap times on their way to a first-place finish. Each Corvette, ranging in production year from 1953 to 2003, features a speedometer display modeled after the true-life dashboard found in the selected vehicle. Six characters are available to play as or against, and each car features upgradeable engines and suspension systems. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Gran Turismo 4
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2005
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Sony's Gran Turismo series, the acclaimed "real-driving simulator" lauded for its sense of authenticity and diverse selection of licensed cars, returns to PlayStation 2 with a completely redesigned game and physics engine. In addition to the same modes of play found in 2001's Gran Turismo 3 A-Spec, with certain areas expanded upon in an attempt to offer more depth, the sequel includes more than 500 cars to choose from and over 50 real-world tracks to test them out on. Classic cars can also be unlocked and stored in a special museum apart from more advanced models available on the showroom floor.
The developers not only sought to improve the visuals of the game, bringing the 3D graphics closer to the quality of the replays, but also the atmosphere surrounding each event. Now animated crowds appear along the tracks to cheer on their favorite drivers, and pit crews are viewable as they quickly work on vehicles to make the subtle adjustments needed to win a race. For the complete driving experience, players can race with the custom-designed Driving Force Pro steering wheel peripheral from Logitech, sold separately. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
The developers not only sought to improve the visuals of the game, bringing the 3D graphics closer to the quality of the replays, but also the atmosphere surrounding each event. Now animated crowds appear along the tracks to cheer on their favorite drivers, and pit crews are viewable as they quickly work on vehicles to make the subtle adjustments needed to win a race. For the complete driving experience, players can race with the custom-designed Driving Force Pro steering wheel peripheral from Logitech, sold separately. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
R: Racing Evolution
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2003
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
R: Racing Evolution for PlayStation 2 is notable for featuring not one but eight distinct racing styles, including GT, rally, and drag racing. A total of 14 tracks are available to compete on, with both real-world venues and fantasy locales represented. Players can choose from a variety of licensed vehicles to participate in one of four game modes: Racing Life, Time Attack, Arcade, and Versus. Racing Life is the heart of R: Racing Evolution, allowing players to participate in a storyline that chronicles an entire career filled with rivalries and lucrative events. By performing well in each race, players will earn points that can be used to unlock power-ups, modifications, and additional cars. The racing becomes more personal with in-game radio communications from crewmembers along the sidelines as well as from adversaries on the track. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
MX Unleashed
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2004
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
MX Unleashed brings a new brand of virtual motorbiking to PlayStation 2. The game's original physics engine is designed to account for the rider, bike, and clutch separately, to provide a realistic look and feel. Players can prove their skills of speed and style in a number of national and supercross competitions, and the game's career mode features 14 amateur, semi-pro, and professional leagues to conquer. Less competitive riders may enjoy the game's innovative "Freeworld" mode, which allows them to explore large, detailed areas, full of mini-challenges and secrets, however they wish. MX Unleashed was developed by Rainbow Studios, creators of such other successful extreme racing titles as Motocross Madness, ATV Offroad Fury, and Splashdown. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide
Powerdrome
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2004
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
This futuristic racer from Mud Duck features contests of nearly inconceivable speed, with an assortment of supersonic "blade" vehicles that can push 1,000 miles per hour. The over-the-top action is matched with a selection of exaggerated characters, "from de-commissioned war droids to spoiled rich kids," giving each vehicle-driver combination its own distinct personality. In addition to competing on a number sanctioned tracks, players can also take to the streets for some "illegal" racing. Tricks are a part of the game as well, but pushing a "blade" racing vehicle beyond its driver's limits may result in a demonstration of the game's real-time damage modeling -- buckled panels, broken hydraulics, smoking engines, and worse can result from minor miscalculations at mach 1.3. Powerdrome supports multiplayer racing, both on the PlayStation 2 and through Microsoft's Xbox Live service. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide
FlatOut
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2005
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Blending high-speed races and dynamic crashes along with a cinematic storyline, FlatOut comes to the PS2 with a number of features designed to set it apart from previous racing titles. Players can leave their car before entering a race to check out the competition at the pit areas, glean some information at the local bar, perform tune-ups, and embark on brief missions to further the story. The heart of the game is the racing competition, where players hit the pedal to the metal on a variety of outdoor venues. The environment is also interactive, to the point where cars can smash through wooden barriers, send piles of stacked tires bouncing along the road, and knock orange cones flying into the distance. A number of jumps are also available, to catch some air.
Real-time damage modeling is another highlight in FlatOut, with details such as engines, transmissions, and the driver viewable after smashing, crashing, and bashing into rival vehicles. Each part is designed to dent, crumple, crack, or fly off, and parts hurtling through the air can damage other vehicles as well. A total of 16 cars are available to drive, each with varied handling and characteristics based on their real-life counterparts. Up to eight vehicles can compete simultaneously on one of 45 courses, and players have the option to either repair or purchase new cars in between each race. Multiplayer options support split-screen and linked play as well as Internet competition via the Xbox Live broadband service. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Real-time damage modeling is another highlight in FlatOut, with details such as engines, transmissions, and the driver viewable after smashing, crashing, and bashing into rival vehicles. Each part is designed to dent, crumple, crack, or fly off, and parts hurtling through the air can damage other vehicles as well. A total of 16 cars are available to drive, each with varied handling and characteristics based on their real-life counterparts. Up to eight vehicles can compete simultaneously on one of 45 courses, and players have the option to either repair or purchase new cars in between each race. Multiplayer options support split-screen and linked play as well as Internet competition via the Xbox Live broadband service. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Enthusia Professional Racing
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2005
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
This original driving simulation from Konami is designed to offer PS2 gamers a realistic racing experience, featuring detailed re-creations of 100s of models of automobiles from more than 40 manufacturers, including Acura, BMW, Mazda, Mercedes, Maseratti, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota, and Volkswagen. The game boasts detailed, realistic physics, brought to the forefront by its "Visual Gravity System," which is designed to convey the sense of speed, inertia, and G-forces through graphics, sound, and control. Cars can be tweaked and upgraded, but Enthusia focuses on the racing action itself, so even the best-tuned car will come in last place if its driver doesn't learn how to take control where the rubber meets the road. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide
Forza Motorsport
- Platform:
- Xbox
- Release Date:
- 2005
- Rated:
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An Xbox answer to the PlayStation's popular Gran Turismo series, Forza Motorsport is a serious driving simulation boasting licensed vehicles and realistic action. The game features automobiles from more than 60 brand-name manufacturers including BMW, Chevy, Dodge, Ferrari, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Mazda, Nissan, and Porsche. Vehicles are extensively customizable, allowing players to trick out their favorite ride with new paint and rims, or upgrade with new engines, brakes, suspensions, and additional systems. Astute drivers can also fine-tune gear ratios, timing, tire pressure, and other elements for top performance in particular driving conditions.
Like the cars and equipment, the game's courses are also based on real-world equivalents, so players can race through re-creations of famous runs such as the Nurburgring or the streets of Rio de Janeiro. Opponent behavior is influenced by the game's "Drivatar" technology, which is designed to learn and mimic the tactics and tendencies of human players. Gamers can train their own Drivatars, who can race for them or help train new members of their team. In spite of the customizable artificial intelligence, sometimes nothing beats racing against other gamers, so a number of multiplayer modes are supported through the Xbox Live service. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide
Like the cars and equipment, the game's courses are also based on real-world equivalents, so players can race through re-creations of famous runs such as the Nurburgring or the streets of Rio de Janeiro. Opponent behavior is influenced by the game's "Drivatar" technology, which is designed to learn and mimic the tactics and tendencies of human players. Gamers can train their own Drivatars, who can race for them or help train new members of their team. In spite of the customizable artificial intelligence, sometimes nothing beats racing against other gamers, so a number of multiplayer modes are supported through the Xbox Live service. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide
Mario Kart DS
- Platform:
- Nintendo DS
- Release Date:
- 2005
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
The series that first taught gamers to "kart" race speeds online in its DS debut. As in the popular SNES, N64, and GBA versions of Mario Kart, players choose a favorite character from the Nintendo canon and compete in chaotic, anything-goes races around variety of Mushroom Kingdom-themed tracks.
Each character comes with his or her own custom go-kart, and offers a different mix of speed, pick-up, and strength. Adding to the excitement are an assortment of power-ups, such as high-speed boosts, slippery banana peels, and ricocheting shells, which when used properly (and with a little luck), can knock a front-runner off the track or launch a last-place racer into first.
New in the DS version of Mario Kart is an online multiplayer mode, designed to be accessible through a proprietary DS-to-DS wi-fi connection (for as many as eight) or a wireless connection to the Internet (for up to four). ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide
Each character comes with his or her own custom go-kart, and offers a different mix of speed, pick-up, and strength. Adding to the excitement are an assortment of power-ups, such as high-speed boosts, slippery banana peels, and ricocheting shells, which when used properly (and with a little luck), can knock a front-runner off the track or launch a last-place racer into first.
New in the DS version of Mario Kart is an online multiplayer mode, designed to be accessible through a proprietary DS-to-DS wi-fi connection (for as many as eight) or a wireless connection to the Internet (for up to four). ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide
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