Indianapolis 500: The Simulation

The Good
Indy 500's graphics are simply stunning considering the system requirements. You cannot find a PC that won't run this game well. The sound is also quite good; if you have an Adlib or Sound Blaster, the engine sounds are amazingly realistic.

That's not to say Indy 500 is an arcade game--when it says "simulation", it means it. You can adjust your spoiler, outer and inner tire pressure, and even the amount of fuel you have in your tank to shave precious seconds off of your lap. Also, the physics are true to life: If you enter a corner too fast, centrifugal force pushes you to the outside of the track, tires squealing.

The Bad
The manual doesn't explain the various customization parameters very well for people new to Formula-1 racing. I know that less fuel in the tank means that the car is lighter, for example, but an explanation of what spoiler drag and tire pressure do for your car would have been helpful.

The Bottom Line
An excellent simulation, on any PC.