More than just a port of the smash arcade hit, Sega Rally 2 is one addictive and difficult game.  Though not quite arcade perfect, because the frame rate isn't at the consistent 60 frames-per-second, the amazing graphics, sound and driving experience make up for it all.  Imagine this, 20 selectable cars (there were only 6 in the arcade) and 19 tracks make this a game that would last a lifetime. The weakness though is that its two-player mode is hit hard by graphic pop-up and slowdown.

However, for a one player racing game, Sega Rally will make sure your thumbs will hurt after playing with this game for more than an hour. When I first tried it, I was quickly amazed with all those reflections that pass on the car, especially in the night stage, where the cars look so REAL! Aside from the usual sun reflections, the cars actually get dirty when you pass them over gravel, mud or snow. Add to that the detail of seeing spectators running for cover as your speeding vehicle passes by or seeing the helicopter consistently bugging you throughout the Indonesian-inspired course, Muddy Stage. Sega's AM R&D # 3 worked so hard with this game that even the sounds of the rally cars are authentic.  In fact, Sega's team had to stay for more than a year in Europe trying on each of the cars in this game to see how they really feel, sound and handle. In fact, when I tried at least 4 cars already, I could even feel the difference in the handling of each. For instance, one car would drift more easily, or another would understeer more; it's quite an extra- ordinary game experience.  Car selection in this game include: Subaru Impreza WRC and 555; Mitsubishi Evolution III, IV and V; Toyota Corolla, Celica 205GT4 and 185GT4; Lancia Delta Integrale HF, Integrale 16-valve and Stratos; Renault Maxi Megane, Peugeot 206, 306, plus many, many more.  Of course, all of these cars are fully customizable from tires, suspension, brakes, steering and even, the navigator's voice!