PC gamers who somehow resisted the temptation to go out and buy the number one next-generation console (nuff respec' inna area to Sony) can now get their hands on one of the best-looking, involving and immersive racers. ToCA Race Driver is where you get to role-play with a difference. You assume the role of surly young Ryan McKane, the latest twig from the McKane family tree to try his hand at Touring Cars. No typical RPG gubbins here, then: no spells to cast, just a whole lotta racing going ... more >>

PC gamers who somehow resisted the temptation to go out and buy the number one next-generation console (nuff respec' inna area to Sony) can now get their hands on one of the best-looking, involving and immersive racers. ToCA Race Driver is where you get to role-play with a difference. You assume the role of surly young Ryan McKane, the latest twig from the McKane family tree to try his hand at Touring Cars. No typical RPG gubbins here, then: no spells to cast, just a whole lotta racing going on, interspersed with cut-scenes, the content of which is dependent on your progress in races.

Ah, yes, progression in races…it all begins so quietly with a solo spin around the track, just to see if you're cut out for the world of Touring Cars. Complete your lap within a certain time (easily done) and you, as Ryan, will be offered a season-long drive in a comparatively low-powered car. Success in this first season can lead to all kinds of offers flooding your inbox. From here on in, things get considerably tougher as you get further into your career, but you mustn't get downhearted. Yes, the competition may get a little rough at times - persistent nudging of another man's fender will most likely result in the kind of payback you can ill afford - so use all the skills you acquire through practice first, then get tough with the competition, and you'll probably do well.

Your career as a race driver is split into three levels: the Super Sports Tier, the Power Racing Tier and the World Championship. Players must earn 132 points to progress from Super Sports Tier to the Power Racing Tier, 162 points to progress from the Power Racing Tier to the World Championship and then win the World Championship.

At the end of each championship, if you finish in a top three position, you will receive a challenge from a Pro Race Driver - one of the top drivers you'll race against during a season. This is a head-to-head race, and by beating the Pro Race Driver, you will win their car, which will then be available to be played from in all non-career game modes.

With a total of 13 championships and extra-curricular races, over 40 cars to drive, and 38 faithfully reproduced circuits available, ToCA Race Driver will suck you in for the long haul. It'll doubtless frustrate you every now and again, but hey, that's the reason you'll keep coming back, right?

And did we mention the triple monitor facility? Thanks to Matrox Surround Gaming, three linked monitors provide views through the windscreen (of course) and to the passenger's and driver's side windows for that 'in car' sensation. Only if you're feeling extravagant, though! However much money you spend on your set-up for ToCA Race Driver on PC, get ready to have a great time, because Codemasters have delivered yet again. << less