Master Rallye

Microids' Master Rallye is one of thousands of off road racing titles, but what makes this one any different to the rest? It may be because it's based upon the well-known European and Asian endurance races that take place in their respective territories.

One of Microids' final releases for the European market, Master Rallye for PS2 is set to rival other games such as V-Rally 3 as championship of the genre. Whether or not it has finesse to challenge Codemasters' Colin McRae Rally 3 remains to be seen, but it is a very good game in its own right.

Master Rallye's races offer a wide selection of skill-based challenges that take place across several exotic locations such as France and Italy, and slightly cooler and less exotic Russia. Consequently, you will be forced to adapt to several different weather conditions that include rain and snow, significantly influencing the handling of these off-road beasts. Your ability to adapt to a situation quickly will do you more good than mastering the layout of each circuit. The game's circuits are rarely constricted and give players the freedom to determine the best route to take from start to finish. Avoiding unnecessary bumps and obstacles can make all the difference at the finish line.

Where the PC version was troubled by a lack of decent third party control pads and the occasional USB steering wheel, the PS2 incarnation prevails. Sony's uniform button configuration, analogue control and vibration compatibility allow the players, to an extent, to feel their way around Master Rallye's circuits, encouraging its players to react accordingly.

Two-player split screen mode works well too. It's competitive, and drives its players to become better, faster racers. It's a great way to hone your driving skills and, like the rest of the game, is thoroughly enjoyable