Outrun 2

Outrun 2 is the long awaited sequel to one of the biggest arcade smash hits of the 1980s - Outrun.

If you fondly remeber the prequel, and enjoyed it, then you'll probably love Outrun 2.

Its basically the same premise - you drive your ferrari against the clock (and traffic) through various themed stages while trying to impress your female passenger. It's a very simple idea and there is none of the in-depth gameplay or options of something like Toca Race Driver 2 or Gran Turismo 3. This is an out and out arcade racer that is light on options, but heavy on quick fun.

The cars handle well and you are encouraged to 'powerslide' (ie go sideways) around corners. Its very satisfying to pull one off at 200mph! Apart from the main arcade game, Sega have bolstered Outrun 2 with loads and loads of extra game modes - from straight racing against other Ferraris to a game where your female companion dishes out commands and you have to fulfill them in order to win 'hearts' off her. These commands range from knocking down cones to over taking a certain number of cars. Talk about emotional blackmail!

The graphics are impressive enough and very detailed, but not really spectacular, but the variation in the stages is commendable. The music and sound effects are classic Eighties fare and there are some brilliant comedy skid samples.

Outrun 2 never tries to be anything but a fun, adrenaline packed blast of a game and pulls it off well. Don't expect to be playing this for hours - its good for a 20 minute bash with your mates and thats about it.