TRD2 is by THE most complete racing game ever made, highly addictive, with a nearly flawless online multiplayer feature!
The graphics are phenomenal, just like a simulation engine, hands down beats the arcade hits like Gran Turismo. Some very minor glitches can be found at times, but its ok, cuz nothing is perfect in life. The amount of tracks, championships, vehicles is amazing, its just all over the spectrum, this is one of my favourite parts. I can race a big rig, an old Mustang, a convertible, DTM, stock car, Indy or rally, the choice is overwhelming.
The gameplay is outstanding. Very realistic, as a simulation should be, with the learning curve being quite tough and longer than one would expect for a racing game, but with practice not too too hard to grasp. You have to keep on remembering that this is NOT an arcade, so for example, when your vehicle is on grass or gravel, pressing gas, like in the real world, is a big no no, and simply tapping the gas is the way to go. Weather plays a big part too in the gamplay, as does the damage of your vehicle, these are all factors to be considered when playing this game, which really is a simulation.
The online multiplayer feature is my favourite. It is so simple yet so very effective and well engineered. The points system is great, and the play remains a challenge no matter whether one is racing with rookies (who tend to be unfair at times) to pros (who drive like perfect robots).
So overall, I would give this game a 9/10, mainly due to the fact that the actual game story line, could be better / longer with more options, especially given the amount of choice in the tracks and cars one would expect a longer and more interesting story line. Other than that, this game is perfect! Can't wait for Race Driver 3 in February 2006!!