Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit 2 (EA, PC G8+)

By PETER ELEY

(Herald rating: * * * )

It's good to be bad, and this fact is the core of lots of computer games. Need for Speed's G8 rating means you won't be very bad, certainly not to the level of Grand Theft Auto, Mafia or some of the hard-core road games, but it is a top racing title, with stunningly detailed cars, beautiful backdrops and a simple driving technique which lets you either outrun the law with impunity or chase the speedsters with your blue and red lights flashing.

This is Need for Speed's sixth release. It still has a few miles left, although the upgrades are driven by graphics rather than gameplay.

Hot Pursuit 2 puts you behind the wheel of Ferraris, Lamborghinis and Mustangs on the open road. There is a variety of modes but the best one is Hot Pursuit where you compete against up to seven other computer or multiplayer opponents.

As you seriously break the speed limit, there is the law to contend with and they have sophisticated tools to help to catch you, including radar and helicopters.

If you find the police a distraction, Championship mode lets you press the pedal to the metal without any worries.

Need for Speed Hot Pursuit 2 doesn't pretend to be a realistic simulation and you can't do much to tweak your vehicle in mechanical upgrades, as in some other racing games. Pick a dog and you're stuck with it until you manage to earn enough points to buy something better.

You do have some control over colour — the Ferrari just has to be red — and you can choose manual or auto transmission. Auto is easier to drive, but manual gives you the edge in acceleration and control.

There are dozens of tracks from around the world, although they are somewhat generic. All have hiding places and escape routes where you can evade the law — anything from a disused mineshaft to a volcano.

peter_eley@nzherald.co.nz