One of the few arcade racers that will have you addicted.
Graphics-: 7
The cars look pretty good: nice reflections, good shadowing. But the tires look like they're about to fall off when you're in the air. Tracks seem to lack creativity, just pretty normal looking. Backgrounds are horrible, they look like watercolor paintings set up like wallpaper.
Sound/Music-: 7
Sirens sound realistic but get annoying after awhile. Tires squeal a little too much than they're supposed to. The soundtrack had some great rock and techno music and even instrumental versions of the songs play when cops are involved.
Gameplay-: 8
The cops aren't really hard to lose, they're just really more of an annoyance. Cops can chase your opponents but can't get busted like in the original Hot Pursuit. You can be a cop if you want to and call on backup, roadblocks and even a helicopter that drops explosive barrels that are hilarious to run into. The cops can do the same thing to you, but lacks excitement. The highest level of pursuit involves two pursuit cars, a helicopter and maybe some roadblocks with those dangerous party killers called spike strips. Unlike in the original Hot Pursuit, where you have 2 warnings if you get caught, as soon as you're stopped the race is automatically over and you're arrested. The cut scenes are fun to watch 'cause sometimes you're being chased by a group of cops, state troopers and even the occasional dog.
If you like arcade racers, lots of cars to choose from, or just want to have fun, then this the game for you.