Road Rash II

"Still addicting 10 years later!"

Let me start off by saying that this series along with John Madden Football and what would evolve into the NBA Live franchise really helped a small unknown company named Electronic Arts establish itself into a gaming powerhouse.

Story 3-10
Not much to tell. Race through 5 cities avoiding cops and fellow rashers who would like nothing more than to knock you off your bike with a good chain or club shot to the head. Finish as fast as you can. The higher you place, the more money you win to upgrade your bike. The money will also serve as payment for any fines you might encounter if you get busted buy a cop.

Graphics 8-10
After 10 years, the graphics have held up very good. Well done backgrounds for the cities you are rashing through. The game also zips along at a great frame rate. Even when you have 10 bikes bashing each other onscreen at the same time.

Sound 5-10
The music is where this game really suffers. While it is snappy, it is nothing memorable. Sounds like listening to a CD through an aluminum can. On the other hand, the sound effects are top-notch. Try using a cow as a ramp going 150 MPH.

Control 8-10
Controls are simple. You have your gas, brake, and even a thrash button to fend off those bikers who want you off your bike. You get a choice of two weapons (club and chain whip) to thrash with if you are fortunate to get your hands on one. Unfortunately, you cannot carry weapons over to the next race.
Controlling your bike will take some getting used to though. As soon as you learn how it handles, you are going to need to buy a better bike to compete in future races.
Each bike has it's own pros and cons. Lighter bikes are faster yet are harder to control. Heavier bikes offer great control but lack speed. And they all control differently.

Overall 10-10
This game made me beg my mother relentlessly for a Genesis for Christmas as a kid. I played this game hours on end when I got it. And to this day, when I need to kill a few hours, there is nothing else I'd rather play.
Yes this game is 10 years old. And yes the graphics and sound are dated. But I guarantee you wont notice or care after you start playing this game. It's that good.

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 12/08/02, Updated 12/08/02