TOCA Race Driver (PS2)

TOCA Race Driver PS2, the first of the TOCA racing series to feature on the PS2, screeches in with a whole new gameplay twist. The usual single race and multiplayer races, plus 38 tracks and 42 cars, are still here, but the real development is the story mode. You take on the part of young racer Ryan McKane, initially testing for a small racing team with the ultimate aim of becoming world champion; the result is a very immersive experience in which the player progresses with McKane, moving through simple races and on to the cut and thrust of the worldwide circuit.
Those familiar with the previous TOCA games will immediately notice that the car's handling has been made easier--a second spent off the track doesn't end up in those frustrating spins. However, the more arcade-like style of handling may lead to fans of more hardcore racing games being a touch disappointed. Graphically the game is great, although a 60Hz mode should have been included. Damage, scenery and all the other cars whiz around the courses with little or no slowdown.