"Decent budget racing title for the PC..."

Lego Racers 2 is the sequel to the successful Lego Racers game, which was released for several systems. Before you buy this game, if you consider yourself a so-called “mature” gamer, don't expect this to be an epic, unforgettable racer. This game is targeted towards kids, as well as fans of Lego games or just Lego in general. Lego Racers 2 is also a very cheap game; you'll be able to find it at a local bargain bin. Is Lego Racers 2 worth the price? Let's find out.

The main idea or hook to Lego Racers 2 is the fact that the game is entirely comprised of Lego bricks. You will be able to make your character out of Lego by choosing different coloured body parts and different types of faces, hats and clothes. The game also allows you to build your own vehicle from scratch. Choose a chassis and you're good to go. There are several different types of Lego bricks to choose from, and each vehicle you make can be unique. You are able to use a maximum of 20 pieces to build your vehicle. On different worlds there will be differently themed bricks to choose from. For example, on a world like Mars, there are futuristic, sci-fi themed vehicle parts.

The story of Lego Racers 2 begins with a gloomy Rocket Racer walking through Sandy Bay. Why is he so sad? Because you kicked his butt in the last Lego Racers game! But as flyers showing him as #2 blew by, another peculiar one flew to him. It read “XALAX”. And thus came the revival of Rocket Racer's spirit. He took his car and made his way to Xalax, where he made new alien friends and got himself a brand new car in the process. He then challenges you, the player to a race at Xalax for the Galactic Racing Championship! But you're not the only one who wants to go. There are several racers at Sandy Bay as well as all over the world who want to win it all. With the help of your friend Sparky, you must collect the Golden Bricks, upgrade your car, and prepare to face Rocket racer once again. Yeah, it seems like a weak story, but this IS a game for kids and the focus is on racing.

The gameplay and racing mechanics are solid. There is even car damage which forces you to race without crashing into others. You can also damage your opponents' vehicles using the numerous weapons a la Mario Kart. Once all the bricks on your car are destroyed, you will be forced to continue the race on foot! Luckily though, there are zones in the racetrack where you restore lost pieces of your car. As I mentioned before, you can upgrade your car by playing the numerous minigames on each world. Ah yes, the world. In Lego Racers 2, there is an overworld for each world you visit. You can drive around this overworld to collect Golden Bricks and play minigames to upgrade your car. The minigames themselves are nothing special, they are usually boring fetch quests. The good thing about them is that they allow you to upgrade the speed, handling and defense of your vehicle. Each world has several racetracks in which you win Golden Bricks to unlock new levels, and a boss at the end of the level. When you defeat each boss you are rewarded with a much more powerful upgrade. You will definitely need all the help you can get if you want to defeat Rocket Racer!

The graphics in Lego Racers 2 are passable for a PC game released during its time. They are comparable to a PS2 game in my opinion. There are some nice reflections and textures here and there. The environments are colourful and match the theme of each level, and for Lego fans out there, everything is constructed out of Lego bricks! The audio doesn't include any memorable tracks, but it does the job fine.

So in conclusion, if you're looking for some fun, “arcadey” racing action for a low price on the PC, you should definitely consider this game. It's great for the kids and it can keep you entertained for a good amount of time.

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 02/11/08

Game Release: LEGO Racers 2 (US, 10/04/01)