We recently received a complete version of the Critereon Software-developed Burnout 2: Point of Impact. The original game was known for conveying a great sense of speed and displaying some pretty impressive crash physics. The sequel definitely keeps both of these qualities while wrapping them around some exciting new game modes, and as such it should provide some longer-lasting value than the first game.

　　The most important new mode in Burnout 2 is called crash. The crashes in the first Burnout were great, but they really lacked a sense of purpose. Crash puts the focus on causing the most spectacular car wreck possible in one of 15 different crash courses. When you wreck, the game starts counting up the amount of damage you're doing in dollars. Medals are associated with certain cash plateaus. The first few crash zones are simple--you're placed in front of an intersection with unlimited turbo boost power, and you simply need to T-bone a bus or semi and watch the excitement. As you progress, the crash zones become more and more devious. One, for example, requires you to hit the back end of a stopped car at full speed, which causes you to flip up over the car, hopefully onto a freeway on ramp filled with speeding busses. The fast-paced nature and short rounds in crash mode should make it a favorite for large groups.

　　Before you can do anything in Burnout 2, however, you'll have to go to school. Offensive driving 101 is the name of the game's opening section, and it teaches you the basics of what fills your boost meter and how to properly perform powerslides. It's a little odd at first, but it's a very short section that has some helpful tips for first-time players. Beyond that, you can enter standard races on traffic-filled roadways in either a championship or single race setting. A handful of fictional cars are at your disposal at the game's outset, including a modern muscle car, a sporty roadster, a pickup truck, an SUV, and a compact. You can select multiple colors for your car and drive them in using automatic or manual transmissions.

　　You'd be hard-pressed to find a faster-feeling game for the PlayStation 2. When you get your car up to top speed or hit the boosters, you really have to react fast to changing traffic conditions. Burnout 2 moves at a fantastic pace without sacrificing reflective car surfaces, particle effects, and other little touches that make the game look great at any speed. The soundtrack does its part to keep the action hectic--it'll stay subdued while driving normally, but filling and setting off your boost meter causes the music to kick into high gear.

　　We'll have more on Burnout 2 as it becomes available. The game is currently scheduled to hit the streets in early October.