Need For Speed : Porsche 2000

Electronic Arts releases another version of their long-running Need For Speed series, based on the legendary Porsche sports car. As in Need For Speed 4: Road Challenge, Need For Speed: Porsche 2000 is a great racing game.

After viewing the rendered intro sequence, the game contains 24 Porsches to choose from initially, with that number potentially increasing to 74. Each is faithfully recreated for the game, with the games' physics engine encompassing each of the cars unique handling style and personality.

The graphics run smoothly and the sound is ample. It is the game modes, however, where this game shines. I incorporates a career mode, time trials and an evolution mode, where the game gives the player the opportunity to trade and create the ultimate dream Porsche car, the games longevity is not in question. Need For Speed : Porsche 2000 is a worthy addition to the Need For Speed series. --Alex Leung.

Satisfying the fantasies of envious driving fans everywhere, the latest Need for Speed focuses exclusively on the popular exotic car, the Porsche. In Need for Speed: Porsche 2000, players are immersed in over 50 years of Porsche history and cars.

Focusing on just one company limits vehicle-selection type, but the game offers variety by reaching into Porsche's past. With Porsches ranging from the 356 Coupe Ferdinand (1950) to the state-of-the-art 991 Porsche Turbo (2000), car aficionados will have plenty of luxury joy-ride choices. Diverse game modes and a crisp physics model complete yet another winning driving experience from Electronic Arts.

One of the most exciting new modes is called Evolution, where drivers purchase an early-model Porsche and compete in races to earn money so they can acquire upgrades, repair damage, and tweak performance. The contrast in both look and feel, from the antique models to present-day roadsters, is captured magnificently by the graphics engine and physics model. Each vehicle handles differently and offers a unique driving challenge.

Graphics are simply breathtaking, though not a significant enhancement over last year's impressive version. Realistic weather effects, rolling hills, and animated scenery all add to Porsch 2000's near visual perfection. Over a dozen tracks take you through grassland villages, autumn forests, and mountain roads. A wealth of Porsche historical information makes Need for Speed: Porsche 2000 a well-rounded package that should excite those looking to sample the open road in dozens of exotic sports cars. --Doug Radcliffe, amazon.com

Pros:

• Striking landscape graphics make each track a feast for the eyes
• Focus on Porsche delivers a large and quite interesting historical section
• Addictive Evolution mode spans the early years of Porsche to the present day
• Still the best arcade racing game on the market

Cons:

• Not a significant enhancement over its predecessor
• Omits some gameplay modes included in earlier versions of Need for Speed