PlayStation

Destruction Derby 2

For the most part, I applauded the changes to this more realistic sequel. In my view, the best change involved the car control. In DD2, car collisions have become more realistic because they're modeled after 3-D physics. The result is as visually appealing as it is convincing: Cars now spin out, roll over and even flip in the air. Still, the big reason to buy this game remains Destruction Derby.

The game is more realistic and much more of a challenge. This is a classic case of the designers realizing what was wrong with last year's game and fixing those problem areas. Fans of Destruction Derby should rev up their engines and avoid the driver's door in their search to wreak havoc on the other derby drivers.

This one had me hooked from the first moment I picked up the controller. Destruction Derby 2's new tracks and crash animations are simply too much for any racing fan to resist.

Car-crunching excitement and new features that burn rubber from the get-go combine to crown Destruction Derby 2 the champion of motorized mayhem.

This game is a lot of fun, and if you've ever had the urge to just smash into that idiot who cut you off, this is the perfect game for you.

There's no doubt that DD2 is far superior to DD. But if you're only interested in the collisions experienced in "The Bowl" from the original, you'll find few improvements here.

Destruction Derby 2 is the game the original should have been – with the luxury of more advanced development tools and more generous deadlines, its programmers have finally realised the full potential of the concept. DD2 is excellent for a number of reasons, the vast majority of which stemming from the radically improved mechanics of its cars – specifically the addition of proper z-axis manipulation.

Destruction Derby 2 isn't a bad game. The actual car physics are done really nicely, and the in-car cam gives you a terrific sense of speed. The graphics are great too, although the pop-up is a trifle heavy. It could be loads of fun, if it weren't so darn hard.

All things considered, Destruction Derby 2 would be more fun if it were a bit easier to play. Even so, it blows the doors off the original.