V8 Supercars 2004 (PC, Xbox Atari G)

By PETER ELEY

Herald rating: * * * * *

The first release of Petrolhead Heaven, er sorry, V8 Supercar Race Driver, became the fastest-selling console game in Australian history, clocking up 25,000 sales in its first two weeks two years ago.

Although derived from the TOCA Touring Car series, it was designed specifically for this part of the world, and followed the career of aspiring V8 hotshot Ryan Kane, mixing a serious racing simulation with arcade action, scantily clad models included.

The followup game, V8 Supercars 2004, has dropped a lot of the fluff in favour of more realistic racing. It has a new physics model, which makes driving and crashing more lifelike, a new graphics engine and enhanced artificial intelligence.

But best of all, for motor sport fans in New Zealand, is the inclusion of the Pukekohe circuit. The South Auckland track was mapped almost to the centimetre using global positioning satellite technology.

As well as lifelike scenery, even the subtle cambers are realistic, says Atari's Chris Eade.

As well as our own home circuit, the classic tracks from Australia are featured, too -- Bathurst, Adelaide, Philip Island, Eastern Creek, Barbagallo, Hidden Valley, Oran Park, Sandown, and Surfers Paradise.

To give the game broader appeal, especially in the US, its developers have bundled in a further 14 different racing styles. So you also get Open Wheel Grand Prix, Super Truck racing, Stockcar Oval Racing, Rally, Rallycross, Ice-Racing, Formula Ford, Classic Racing, Convertible Racing, Street Racing, GT Racing and Performance Cars.

There's no doubt that it's a value-for-money well-crafted game, and just the chance to race a Falcon or Commodore around Pukekohe will make it a must-buy for wannabe racers in this country.

* Email Peter Eley