Most racing games are rubbish: that is, few of them give a realistic impression of what being in a race is actually like. The cars handle like boats and the computer rivals are usually slow and inept.

GTR2 is completely different. This is a totally detailed and incredibly realistic simulator, which raises the bar for racing games of its type.

It’s based on the GT racing series run by the FIA (who run Formula One) and features a stunning range of mouth-watering cars: Maserati MC12s, Saleen S7Rs, Ferrari 430s, Lamborghini Murcielagos and more.

Does it look the part?

If you’ve got a powerful enough PC, GTR2 will stun you with the depth, detail and clarity of its graphics, especially the car models.

Effects modelling in-game is magnificent as well: you can do a full 24-hour race and flick your headlights on as the sun sets, peering into the gloom as night draws in.

Realistic simulation or arcade fun?

GTR2 is a detailed simulator but you have an enormous freedom to choose just how accurate – and demanding – it is.

If you’re brave, hook yourself up with a steering wheel, turn all the driver aids off and embark upon a hundreds laps of Spa-Francorchamps in the pouring rain. But GTR2 is just as much fun to play with a simple joypad or keyboard with some of the driver aids on.

How does it play?

Don’t be put off if you played the famously tricky original GTR, or its historic spin-off GT Legends, and found it too tough. GTR2 is much more approachable, but those looking for a deep and lasting challenge will find plenty to sink their teeth into.

This is without doubt the most comprehensive racing simulator since the legendary Grand Prix series by Geoff Crammond. You can race in every practice and qualifying session, roll around the formation lap before the start, and tweak every conceivable component on your car.

How much gaming will you get out of it?

Months. Even talented racers will need time to get used to how demanding this game is – on top of manhandling a ferociously powerful car you have to communicate with your pits, handle changing track conditions, jockey for positions and even fiddle with your brake balance settings. Make sure you spend a few minutes arranging a controls layout you’re happy with or you’ll quickly get confused.

There's the usual plethora of online options and the enormous support it has from the internet community testifies to just how good it is.

Pole position or flaming wreck?

10/10. Approachable and attractive for inexperienced racers, comprehensive and challenging for old hands, GTR2 is the best racing simulator for years.

Author – SimBin
Publisher – Atari
Available format(s) – PC
Price(s) – £29.99
Format tested – PC
Review by Keith Collantine

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