Publisher: Activision
Platform: PS2, Xbox, GameCube
With rally racing showing up in more games like Gran Turismo, Sega Rally, Colin McRae, Rallisport Challenge and so forth, it would follow that FIA World Rally should set up a venue in the United States as the demand and popularity of rally racing has increased. Unfortunately, that is still in the works or "possibility of happening" phase. Until then, more and more rally games are bound to come out.
Rally Fusion: ROC seems like yet another rally game. Yet, what you get with Rally Fusion is a game that takes one of the most prestigious races and makes it accessible to those of us without spectacular travel budgets. With licensed cars becoming more and more the norm these days, it's no surprise that Rally Fusion has its share of them.
While it's tough to find anything bad or not-to-like about Rally Fusion, it just feels like yet another rally game. It's enjoyable and it's a lot of fun but, once you beat it, it gets put on the shelf with the rest. There's no mode to create your own courses and no real head-to-head multiplayer action.
It is an admirable game because it includes multiple driving modes and has some really boss graphics. It's great to finally have a game that, for once, doesn't focus on WRC, however, the game could use a healthier dose of originality. Activision took a big risk in releasing Rally Fusion into an already crowded genre, but it would appear to be a reasonable gamble. At no point does the game feel incomplete or rushed. And it's certainly above average with its physics and damage modeling.
If you're a rally nut and you need to collect all games rally, then this is your cup of tea. The Xbox and the GameCube versions would probably be best, since on the PS2, the loading can get a little on the long side. Either way, this is a good game that is worthy of our nod.
Dead Or Alive:Xtreme Beach Volleyball
Publisher: Tecmo
Platform: Xbox
For those of you familiar with the Dead or Alive franchise, you know the fundamental reasons why you need to get this game: the action, graphics and, duh, the girls. Of course, the other reason is the, ahem, physiques. DOAX does not disappoint in this arena either. What you get is a solid volleyball game with some role-playing aspects and some light gambling action on the side.
The story begins with the character you've chosen standing on a yacht and talking with Zack, the owner of Zack Island, which is where your adventure begins. You go through the game making friendships and rivalries all the while playing volleyball. If you have my luck and skill, you lose excessively and can never get to the point where you can convince one of the characters, or even your character, to wear the skimpy Venus swimsuit (while the rating on the game states "nudity," this is the closest you'll ever get).
Where the game really shines is the fluidity of gameplay and, of course, the stunning graphics. DOAX is one of those games that demonstrate the Xbox's graphical prowess. From the details on the faces and figures of the characters to the bathing suits themselves, you will be impressed with what DOAX has to offer. And, as I said earlier, you will also be enticed by the lovely ladies with their revamped and vastly improved "physiques." Regardless of whether you're into volleyball or not, DOAX is a must have.