A game that is so extremely real it fails to satisfy everyone...
This game isn't for everyone. There. I said it. Satisfied now? If you take your time and start a long, tedious, hard-boiled journey down Colin McRae Rally 2005 alley, you'll be rewarded with an experience that will make you feel you actually invented something. The rally spirit is as it is: Realistic driving (especially on the more serious Manual Mode), tough bumps, turns and handbrake sequences... It's back to driving school with this game... An experience that transcends all other wannabees. My only complaint is the lack of any real depth in Career and Championship modes.
Graphically, the game is a triumph. The damage effects are first-hand. No game has attempted this kind of challenge as Codemasters have proven they can. The environments are so lifelike and articulate. You can even see dirt on broken section of the body. Fantastic.
Sound: Apart from the title theme, music is nowhere to be found. But who cares? Engine SFX and weather as well as dirt sounds are a pleasure to the ear. Crowds cheer you as you pass by them.
Again, don't play this game is you think Need for Speed Underground II is a racing game.