R.C. Pro-Am II

"A great racing game that adds to the original"

If you liked RC Pro Am, you'll love this game, guaranteed. The game is basically the same, except slightly improved in all areas. The premise is still the same: you race three other cars around a track for several laps, and if you place first, second or third you move on to the next race. On the track are obstacles, such as tires, oil slicks and water, as well as power ups for invincibility and speed boosts. You earn money by winning races and picking it up on the course. You use this money after each race to buy a better engine, tires or weapons for your car, of which there are many to choose. Again, you can collect the letters N-I-N-T-E-N-D-O to obtain a better vehicle. Another great addition is a four player mode, with the use of a four player adapter.

Graphics: 8/10

The game uses the same perspective as the first game, a 3/4 overhead view. The graphics are nothing special, but they are above average and sharp. Everything is easy to distinguish.

Sound: 7/10

Not bad. The music is similar to the type of music found in the first game, and the sound effects are well done.

Gameplay: 9/10

Control of your car is pretty well done, though if you haven't played the first game it will take a little getting used to. One irritant is the fact that when a computer controlled car crashes, they always catch up very quickly. Lapping another car in the game, or anything close to it, is impossible. Another negative is that you can lose a race without even making a large mistake. For example, you could race a perfect race and miss the last speed boost and end up fourth. Positives include the large assortment of weapons, the inclusion of money to buy things, the awesome four player mode and the upgraded cars when you spell Nintendo. As I said above, this game is essentially RC Pro Am with a TON of improvements.

Replay: 9/10

The four player mode adds instant replay value. There are lots of weapons to obtain, and you can always try to get better cars by collecting all the Nintendo letters. You can also attempt to finish first in every level. The only complaint is that the frustration factor is very high at times.

Overall: 9/10

One of the best racers available for the NES. I recommend you rent this at least, especially if you liked the first game of the series. If you have a four player adapter, this game might be worth a purchase. Give it a try.

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 11/01/99, Updated 11/01/99