The greatest thing about FlatOut 2, is that the developers took a mainstream, popular genre of game, and gave it an original twist to prove they deserve a lot of credit for the work they've produced (as opposed to just being 'another racing game').

The graphics in the game have been very carefully implemented - Allowing the game to run on most machines very smoothly, while maintaining the brilliant physics (including driver ragdoll). The game can reduce itself to simple (yet still nice) graphics for old machines, or shine the monitor with sparkling, beautiful bloom and lighting effects for newer machines.

Another great feature about Flat-Out 2, is the sound. There's nothing like a roaring engine with surround-sound speakers... But the developers have gone an extra mile by adding sounds like bassy hits of the tyres when colliding on the road, and paint being scratched off when losing control and sliding across barriers.

As every game has some disappointing mishaps - as does Flat-Out 2. It is very disappointing when you produce an awesome replay, including lots of ragdoll 'moves' when your driver flies out, and car pileups - but not being able to save your replay! There is also a lack of features on online gameplay (though over a local network, it's a must!), including no chats, thus no communication between players (when you really would like to give some disencouraging words to a driver after you turn their car into a rusty lawn mower!).

All in all, this game is a favorite for me. The unique feature of driver-ragdoll really adds an element of fun into the game (most games require ragdoll these days). The developers have woken up and realized that if they were to make a racing game, it needs something special - And Flat-Out 2 was a result of their realization.

Learning Curve: Takes a while

Was this review helpful?