Summary
- Release Year: 1998
- Genres: Racing, Sport
- Platforms: PlayStation
- Developers: Idol Minds
- Publishers: 989 Studios
Rally Cross 2 (1998): The Definitive Off-Road Racing Simulator
Released in 1998, Rally Cross 2 is the sequel to the popular off-road racing game Rally Cross. Developed by Digital Illusions CE (now known as DICE) and published by Electronic Arts, Rally Cross 2 takes the original game’s formula and expands upon it in every way, offering a more realistic and immersive off-road racing experience.
Gameplay
Rally Cross 2 lets you experience the thrill of off-road racing on eight different tracks set in a variety of environments, including construction sites, switchyards, forests, deserts, and more. You can choose from a pool of ten vehicles with different ratings in power, top speed, and weight, and customize them to your liking. Customization options include shocks, steering response, brakes, gearing ratios, transmission, tires, and even paint.
The game features four different play modes:
- Single Race: Race against one or three AI opponents on any of the eight tracks. You can set the race to head-on or suicide mode, which has you racing against vehicles driving in the opposite direction.
- Season: Compete in a series of races across all eight tracks. Your goal is to earn points and finish in the top three in order to advance to the next season.
- Time Trial: Race against the clock on any of the eight tracks. Try to set the best time possible and compare your results with other players online.
- Practice: Get some practice driving on any of the eight tracks. This mode is perfect for learning the tracks and experimenting with different vehicles and setups.
Graphics and Sound
Rally Cross 2 features impressive graphics for its time. The tracks are detailed and varied, and the vehicles are well-modeled and textured. The game also makes use of a variety of visual effects, such as reflections, mud, and dust, to create a realistic and immersive experience.
The sound design is also top-notch. The engines roar, the tires squeal, and the crowds cheer, all adding to the overall atmosphere of the game.
Track Editor
One of the most notable features of Rally Cross 2 is its track editor. This powerful tool allows you to build your own custom tracks from scratch or modify existing ones. You can add jumps, turns, mud pits, and other features to create your own unique racing challenges.
The track editor is easy to use and allows for a lot of creativity. You can share your custom tracks with other players online, and download tracks created by other players.
Multiplayer
Rally Cross 2 supports up to two players for head-to-head competition. You can race against each other on any of the eight tracks, or on custom tracks created by you or other players.
The multiplayer mode is a lot of fun, and it adds a lot of replayability to the game.
Conclusion
Rally Cross 2 is a classic off-road racing game that still holds up today. With its realistic graphics, immersive sound design, deep customization options, and powerful track editor, Rally Cross 2 offers a complete and satisfying off-road racing experience. Whether you’re a fan of off-road racing games or just looking for a fun and challenging driving game, Rally Cross 2 is definitely worth checking out.
Review Score
8/10