KEY POINTS:
MOTORSTORM: PACIFIC RIFT
PS3
Rating: PG
The original MotorStorm was a launch title for the PlayStation 3 console, and its sequel shows just how far programmers have gone towards extracting maximum performance from the grunty next-gen consoles.
Unlike recent ATV stunt-fest Pure, MotorStorm gives gamers a choice, running the mud-slinging gamut from bikes, buggies and rally cars through to ridiculous monster trucks.
The scene this time is a volcanic Pacific Island, with 16 tracks to attack. Racers choose their own routes which can involve stomach-churning jumps over lava pits to boost-cooling charges down shallow streams. You can attack opponents in your quest for wins. It's not stupid easy, and the resulting crashes are bone-jarring, car-wrecking beauties.
Online racing is available for up to 12 players. Those who suffer from motion sickness during first-person games will probably need a barf bag.
Verdict: Graphics, audio and gameplay are excellent - if you feel like getting about as far off the beaten track as it's possible to do, this should be on the Christmas list.
