Burnout 2: Point of Impact

"True Adrenaline Rush..."

Burnout 2: Point of Impact is the sequel to Burnout. It combines arcade racing with a big dose of adrenaline to create an experience that rivals the Need for Speed series.

Gameplay (10.0/10.0):

Burnout 2 is a unique racer. Driving into oncoming traffic, nearly missing cars, drifting around corners and catching air fill up your boost meter. When the boost meter fills, turning on the boost increases the speed and creates a huge adrenaline rush.

Burnout 2 comes with a variety of modes: Single Race, Championship, Multiplayer, Offensive Driving 101 and Crash. Single race is for quick races; Championship allows you to unlock new cars and tracks. Multiplayer lets you take on a friend in a regular race or a Crash. Offensive Driving 101 teaches you the basics of the driving the Burnout way. Crash challenges you to cause as much dollar damage as you can in various courses.

Graphics (9.5/10.0):

Burnout 2 is a visually impressive game. The cars are well detailed as are the tracks. During the race, the game holds to a constant frame rate regardless of the number of vehicles on screen. You are offered two views: 1st and 3rd person, as well as the view played during crashes. The cars literally get destroyed, with bumpers flying around and tires rolling on the ground. Crash mode shows the crashes in an impressive slow motion capture.

Sound (9.0/10.0):

The sound in Burnout 2 is done rather well. While the engine may not sound as realistic as other racers, the music is perfect for the game, especially when the volume doubles when you begin to Burnout. Crashing, honking and other car sounds are well done and add to the realism.

Control (9.5/10.0):

Burnout 2 has very responsive controls. X accelerates, Square breaks, R1 boosts and L1 looks behind your car. The car responds precisely to controls and all the buttons are conveniently placed.

Replay Value (9.0/10.0):

The original Burnout was criticized for its lack of replay value. Burnout 2 adds more to do with Pursuit chases, Crash mode and addictive gameplay. While it won’t last forever, Burnout 2 is definitely worthy of a purchase.

Differences with Burnout:

Burnout 2 includes both additions and removals from the original Burnout. Burnout 2 adds better graphics, police Pursuit mode, Crash mode, new cars, new tracks, points gained by catching air and more statistics. Missing from Burnout 2 are the multiple replays during crashes, more sensitive crashes, the bus and crash replays after the race.

Overall (9.5/10):

Burnout 2 is a great improvement to the original Burnout. With the addictive gameplay, slick graphics and tight controls, Burnout 2: Point of Impact is one of the best racers currently available.

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