User Rating: 8.6 | Burnout 2: Point of Impact GC
Burnout 2 clearly has some improvements over the original Burnout, but most unfortunately, has some flaws that were never fixed. Gameplay: The gameplay has shown great improvement, especially with the addition of Crash, and Pursuit. There is also a new addition- after you complete a Championship Circuit, you have to complete a sort of prep race. If you win a gold, you can unlock some stuff like a new pursuit race. As for the pursuit, its pretty simple. All you have to do is touch the target car, and it loses a health bar. As for the Crash mode, it has plenty of tracks to wreak havoc on, but unfortunately, these tracks have a time limit, and is very short. Despite this, it is very entertaining, and gives a chance for your friends to win! However, before you start all the fun stuff, it's mandatory you complete driving school, which many players (especially those who already played the first Burnout) will find extrememly pointless. It basically covers how to fill up your boost meter, and how to use your boost. Unfortunately, the game does not allow you to view your individual crashes after finishing a normal race. However, (a BIG improvement over Burnout) when you get into a crash, it only repeats it ONCE, which in my opinion, is the best thing they did. Like the original Burnout, there are copious amounts of stuff to unlock, from new tracks to new cars and modes. Out of the box, you'll probably only have 50% of the game unlocked. As for that, it will take a VERY long time for most players to unlock everything. You'll find yourself replaying a championship because you didnt win a gold medal on the last race. Because of this determination to unlock a lot of cool stuff, the game is hard to put down, and that is why I gave Gameplay a 9. Graphics: I was fairly disapointed with the graphics aspect. Sure there is still those awesome reflection effects on the cars (seems VERY real, especially when going under street lamps, etc) , but there is STILL that annoying flickering of the backround. It can be very angering, especially because it will sometimes impair your view and you wont be able to see oncoming cars. Despite this, there is still the beautiful scenery and cool weather effects, although i would not suggest you pay attention to it for too long.. And like GameSpot said, the game stays a solid framerate all throughout. Sound: Burnout 2's music is a nice rock and roll type, and gets faster when you are using your boost. It's a nice touch. As for the sound effects, they could have been a little better. Sometimes they sound a tad bland. The crashing sounds could have been a little more dynamic and with more variety. However, it should not stop you from getting the game. OVERALL: For 40 bucks, go out and get it! It's a great game, and will entertain you for hours. Just have some good jars for all the adrenaline you are gonna get!
