Based on the FIA GT racing calendar - a huge global event where racers use a variety of souped-up cars from makers such as Nissan, Ford and Lamborghini - this is the follow-up to the excellent GTR from last year.

Utilising a similar racing model, GTR2 adds new cars, tracks and gameplay modes, and is quite simply the finest driving game we’ve yet played on the PC.

It’s a visual treat, with spectacular racing action on some beautifully designed tracks. The weather conditions are brilliantly integrated – no instant rain and naff effects – and they force you into continuously changing your driving techniques.

The races are also incredibly realistic – cars naturally wear down quickly when being thrown around tracks – and it’s a constant thrill deciding whether to push it just a little bit harder or hold back. But before you can even hope to finish a lap, some serious practice is needed, which is where the excellent addition of a driving school comes in.

It's similar to the tutorials used in the Gran Turismo titles and isn’t the kind of training camp that most Sunday drivers go through to get their L plates; for here you learn the tricks required to brake, accelerate and overtake at high speeds. It also offers a host of challenges that double up as tests of your increasing driving prowess and a way of unlocking new cars and tracks.

Once you've honed your skills in the driving school, there are three main racing modes to compete in – single race, season, and the daunting sounding 24-hour race, which thankfully doesn’t require a whole day to take part in.

Within the options, there are three difficulty levels, and this is what makes the game so addictive. For the difference between them is colossal, and even the most skilled veterans of the first game will need to work their way up through the levels.

The physics, both visually as your car rocks around at huge speeds, and control-wise, are absolutely fantastic. It feels incredibly realistic, especially if you play it using a full wheel and pedal interface, and before long you’ll be swinging your head from left to right as if you were really in the front seat.

It’s fantastic as a solo offering, but where it comes alive is in its online modes, and GTR2’s multiplayer racing is something very special indeed. You can compete against 27 other players, and the servers offer a thrilling and lag-free gaming environment.

So whether you’re a petrol-head looking for an official stat-fest, or just a humble arcade gamer after a thrilling ride, GTR2 is un-missable entertainment.

Also consider:
Toca 3
Overall: Toca 3 doesn’t have the focus some other PC racers boast, but if it’s variety you’re after then look no further
Rating: 4/5
Price: £35

Flat Out 2
Overall: Flat Out 2 offers unadulterated fun and a good multiplayer mode. This is car destruction at its finest
Rating: 4/5
Price: £30

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