Thank heavens that the all-powerful EA claimed Burnout series creator Criterion for itself, snapping up the developer in a wise move in early 2004. Just think, if Burnout had remained with the unfortunate Acclaim, Burnout 3 may not have made an appearance. Oh dear.

The bottom line is that it is here at last. Burnout 3: Takedown hits the shelves, metaphorically knocking other early September 2004 releases out of the way. How exactly could Criterion improve on the major step forward that Po ... more >>

Thank heavens that the all-powerful EA claimed Burnout series creator Criterion for itself, snapping up the developer in a wise move in early 2004. Just think, if Burnout had remained with the unfortunate Acclaim, Burnout 3 may not have made an appearance. Oh dear.

The bottom line is that it is here at last. Burnout 3: Takedown hits the shelves, metaphorically knocking other early September 2004 releases out of the way. How exactly could Criterion improve on the major step forward that Point of Impact was from the original Burnout? Easy – more of the same, with the emphasis on 'more'. More cars, more speed, more oncoming traffic, and more – many more – gameplay options.

We know it sounds a bit Spinal Tap, but Burnout 3 is louder and faster than before – how could it not go up to 11? Game modes included this time around include Risk and Reward, Crash, Race and Online. Within Race mode you get a shedload of options including Single race, Tournament, Lap Eliminator, Burning Lap and Road Rage to name but a few. Multiplayer options are abundant, with modes featuring up to eight players racing at once in Battle Race and Road Rage. Party Crash is a 'pass the controller' experience for up to 16 people to enjoy.With Network play available, seven different modes are available online, with up to six players able to participate in variations on the Crash and Road Rage modes for example.

“What's it like to play though?” you may ask. Well, like we've already said, more of the same, but faster. The basic premise remains the same: drive your vehicle like you stole it, cause as much havoc as possible, and unlock the track and motor selections by risking everything. The Takedown part of the title refers to putting fellow racers out of contention. Just be wary of one thing when this happens in gameplay. The cut-aways and slo-mo action seen in previous versions of Burnout are present and correct, but initially things can get a little confusing. There's been more than one occasion in our time with the game when we've questioned exactly what we're seeing. Then it becomes clear that B3 will show you almost everything that's worth showing, whether or not you're involved in the carnage.

There's a typically intrusive (of EA anyway) vocal soundtrack from a radio personality named Striker who, when he shuts his rattle, plays some pretty good music (witness The Ramones and Von Bondies) and some stuff we'd really prefer not to hear again (Moments in Grace, Jimmy Eat World...oof!). Driving like a maniac to loud rock music is not to be sniffed at however, and Burnout is the best place to do it. Risking your virtual life – and your lovely shiny car – to get the points you need to progress is as well implemented this time around as we had hoped for. Totally removed from reality, Burnout 3 makes the likes of Gran Turismo and ToCA seem like a crash course (no pun intended) in sensible driving. It's a party game in disguise, and the inclusion of Xbox Live! and oodles of multiplayer modes means almost infinite enjoyment. << less