Already a success on the Dreamcast and PlayStation 2, 4X4 Evo. has shown just how off road racing should be done. Now they"re doing it all over again on the Xbox with its stunning sequel "4X4 Evolution 2".

Four-wheel drive off road racing games always seems to be somewhat sparse, and always have done. I couldn"t tell you why, because whenever someone does release one, it always happens to be good fun. I remember back in the day playing on the NES (Nintendo Entertainment System), with my bad-boy-racer loving friends (don"t forget this was over 10 years ago) and having a right laugh on "Off Road Racing". In fact, this is one of the first off road games that"s been brought to my attention. "4X4 Evo" offered great gameplay and lots else to offer.

So what does Terminal Reality have in store for us when they release the likes of "4X4 Evo 2" in a few months time? Well, as with a lot of sequels; exactly the same as what"s in the first game but more. The main concept of the game still remains (let"s face it, it would be a stupid idea to do otherwise): you till go round tracks in your four-wheel drive Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) and race others passing check points along the way - as simple as it gets. Lots more features will be added to the game also. "4X4 Evo 2" will feature over 70 different vehicles to destroy land with, each boasting high horsepower along with style. Each SUV has their own advantages and disadvantages to match your skill. You"ll be able to upgrade their parts over time making your vehicle more efficient than ever, displaying true power on the off-road environment.

Racing in different classes and improving your skill pays off as you get paid to race and win - allowing you to use your money for improving your vehicle.

If you thought the tracks on "4X4 Evo" were impressive, then prepare for a major shock to the system when you see just how incredible this game looks. Now when you go tearing down the track with your monster, not only will you be creating some serious Van-damage on the mud, grass and even the water, the results will show. Going through muddy puddles will be a treat as your vehicle will no longer maintain their shiny texture for much longer. The scenery looks absolutely incredible regardless of whether it"s "as it was", or after you meddled with it, especially the lighting and shadow effects.

One of the more impressive sides to the original game was how accurately the weather you race in effects the way in which you drive. Rain effects made the track more slippery and harder to see in, while a sunny day would get the sun in your eyes. More weather effects will be included in this game, this time consisting of better fog effects and now snow… You"ll be racing along the cool white loveliness quicker than you can say "Dark Summit".

For fans of the original, and indeed 4X4 racer lovers, this is a game that you simply cannot afford to miss. It won"t appeal to everyone, but everyone should at least give this one a go. The new "easy to learn, hard to master" play style should keep hardcore and novice gamers alike at this one for ages.

Preview By: Gabriel Ralls