Burnout 2 - Point of Impact

Published by Acclaim
Developed by Criterion Games
Platform: PlayStation 2
Price £39.99
Released: Out Now

It would be fair to argue that PlayStation 2 owners had the worst version of the original Burnout. The graphics were rather bland and the framerate was not constant. Both the XBOX and GameCube had graphically enhanced and far quicker and smoother versions upon the launch of both consoles. Of course some would argue this is because of the superior power of both of these consoles when compared with PlayStation 2. Criterion Games however have proved such arguments are wrong with the graphically superior and wonderfully quick and smooth Burnout 2 - Point of Impact.

Burnout 2 improves on the original game in every way possible. Just like the first game the objective is race against your rival in precarious situations. There are some added modes this time around, where the aim is to cause a spectacular crash instead of actually avoiding them. Criticisms of the first game included comments about the lack of cars. This time around there are 20+ very different cars. Of course not all of these cars are initially available and there are plenty for you to unlock. Some people also complained about the lack of modes that were available. Criterion have also addressed this problem and as well as an improved Championship mode, there is Chase - which requires you to crash to cause a specific $ amount of damage; Offensive Driving 101 is really a tutorial mode that explains how to do everything to earn the much needed boost etc. There is also a single race mode and a time attack mode and both don't really need a description.

If you've played the original Burnout then you'll know that it was very unforgiving especially when racing against oncoming traffic. Thankfully Burnout 2 is a lot better in this respect and slightly catching an oncoming car will not smash your car to smithereens. The control is also a lot tighter this time around and weaving between the oncoming vehicles is easier and a lot more enjoyable than in the first game.

Graphically Burnout 2 is very impressive. The road, car, and environmental textures are absolutely fantastic and Criterion have obviously been doing their homework on how to get the best out of the PlayStation 2. The crashes are more spectacular than ever with exceptional damage models and dramatic camera work, further enhancing the experience.

Deaf gamers will have no problem with Burnout 2. Everything is given in text. The tutorial mode, Offensive Driving 101, is given in text and will enable you to learn the mechanics of the gameplay. All objectives, instructions etc., are given in text and full access is given to deaf gamers which is always very pleasing to see.

Burnout 2 is without a doubt one of the top driving games on the PlayStation 2. The high adrenaline action racer is back with a vengeance and if you liked the first game at all, then you'll be very impressed with this sequel.

Overall Game Rating: 9.0/10 A superb sequel that no racing fan should ignore

Deaf Gamers comment: Absolutely fine.