Mobil 1 Rally Championship

Copyright: KBkids.com

Fans of rally racing will flip over this wonderful simulation! For those who don't know a racecar from a John Deere tractor, rally racing involves racing against the clock, in cross-country races...unlike 'round and round' racetracks. The courses here are taken from the British Isle races, and are spectacularly reproduced here in almost breathtaking reality.

This game is easy for novices (i.e. those who still crash into trees every time they try a racing simulation) and challenging enough to keep the pros busy for quite some time. Race fans will enjoy the 20 or more licensed cars, and the more than 420 miles of authentically mapped racecourses. Win the entire championship and open another level of more advanced racecars.

This game includes extremely realistic graphical and sound effects. It really does feel like you are driving the car! Water splashes, mud flies, bushes rustle as you hit them (for those still learning the trees crunch too) and the sun glares off your windshield. It is almost fun to choose a course that is known for its bad weather just to see the special effects.

The courses are long, so taking turns can be a bit annoying. Fortunately, Mobil Rally gives you a few nice options. You can play split screen on one computer, if you can stand bumping elbows. You won't be truly 'racing' each other, but can run the course at the same time. Over the Internet, or your own network, you can play with up to four players at once.

While some racing fans still may prefer the traditional round track style seen in so many other racing programs, this one is a breath of fresh air. If you enjoy racing games, this is one not to be missed. You will really feel like you are driving through the countryside, and may even forget you are looking at a computer monitor.

Bottom Line: A rally race not to be missed. Spectacular effects make this one truly enjoyable for all skill levels.

Ratings: (based on KBkids.com's 4 star rating system)

Overall: 4

BrainGain: 1 1/2

FunFactor: 4

EasePlease: 3 1/2

Buy Mobil 1 Rally Championship at Amazon!