Sega Rally

The ultimate arcade racer returns in fine form in this high-octane title. Unrealistic power slides, eye-blindingly colourful locales and odd-sounding co-pilots are what make this game fun. It looks realistic but it's the step back from the less serious racers out there that makes this shine.

Track deformation brings a tactical edge to the rally genre as mud and gravel are torn up under the wheels of each car making the roads uneven and tricky to navigate. This gives the game an extra level of depth as players have to be quick in adapting their racing lines to suit freshly-damaged surfaces.

20 tracks of lush visuals and satisfying speed await you both on- and off-line. This redefines racing in the same way Ridge Racer did so many years ago. If you liked that then you will know what to expect here. Get this if you like your racing games with a touch of nostalgia. (Dave Cook)