Overall: I was weary of buying a racing game where you don't actually race at the same time as others on the track, but I've heard good things about this series so I took a chance. I'm so glad I did. This is one of my all-time favorite racing games. Gameplay: The controls are great. The cars can be fine-tuned before a race to suit the particular track and weather conditions. Repairs to the car can also be made between races.
It is online enabled. You can race against others online and it also supports downloadable content. Their are several modes of play, including an extensive career mode where you work your way up thru the ranks of the rally circuit. Very addictive.
The difficulty may put off some, but gamers with skill or patience will be rewarded with a great racing experience. Graphics: The graphics are very impressive. The scenery alone is breathtaking. The cars look photo-realistic and take damage as they should. Smaller impacts cause minor damage and more violent impacts cause more severe damage. Sound: The music is unobtrusive techno during the menus. All the cars sound unique and authentic. You have a guide who rides with you and proves to be very valuable since he helps you navigate the track by describing upcoming turns. He talks alot during the races, but amazingly never gets annoying. Suggestions: Custom soundtracks are rarely a bad thing on a racing game, even if it is only pre and post race, and you can't have too many cars and tracks. Overall an A+ title.