A pure rush in the finest form of the word...
The first thing i noticed was the beautiful graphics, although not perfect (sometimes you can see tiny black gaps in the roads and such), but this was probrably the furthest ive ever seen a handheld go. Im so impressed ill give it a 9. I think the psp still has so much potential to get better graphics then even this. I also suspect that there will be even more beautiful games then this in just the next month or 2.
The gameplay is extremely fun. The basic game mechanic is racing and "takedowns". It adds some real interesting things these takedowns. For instance there are regular takedowns, wall takedowns, truck takedowns, etc. Not only do these make it interesting but its also fun just to watch the cars get damaged and seeing the glass and sparks fly everywhere. There is also something called "crash mode" which isn't challenging to me, but it sure is fun. The basic point of this mode is to make the BIGGEST crash as possible, blow up, ram into 9 cars, whatever you can do just to cause the most damage.
The sound runs alongside the gameplay well. Although i haven't heard many of the songs or artists before this game most of them are great for the gameplay. Some are head banger-ish and others are the kinds that get you into the game. The car sounds aren't half assed either. Engine sounds, rubber burning and huge crashs have never sounded so good.
Overall i think this is one of my top 3 psp games. Although it doesn't go without its flaws it seems so superb while playing it, i usualy dont even notice! pick this up if youve liked the series thus far or if your new to it too!