Burnout - GameCube

Contrary to the serious approach of racing simulators like the PS2's Gran Turismo 3, this is foot-to-the-pedal stuff, and tremendously good fun to play. And when you do put your proverbial foot down, get ready to move, for this is a blisteringly fast title that deceptively requires more concentration than it would first appear. The downside is that it won't appeal to those who like their racing games nice and serious, nor to those looking for anything particularly innovative. For Burnout has few qualms about marrying the power of the GameCube to a game engine that forsakes bells and whistles for speed, destruction and sheer good fun. Fortunately, in this case, it's all the better for it, making it a real four-wheel treat. --Simon Brew