Shift 2: Unleashed is a highly challenging and exciting racing game which improves greatly on its predecessor. New features, such as the first-person helmet cam and the reworked graphics engine, make the driving seat a more thrilling place to be than it was in the first game.

Immersive first-person experience in helmet cam; Big graphical improvements; AutoLog creates lots of competition with friends; Fast-paced Career mode

Handling can be extremely unpredictable; GT3 & GT1 championships are not entirely authentic

Shifting gears for a minute, one of the best features of Shift 2 is ‘Autolog,' which was first introduced in Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit. Autolog is a race-centric social network that allows gamers to vie for driving dominance among their group of PlayStation Network friends.

Deep and varied career mode; Superb visual presentation; especially the in-cockpit view; Excellent implementation of 'Autolog' social network features

Delayed handling on standard control pads; Lackluster audio; Heavy aliasing

The competitive online mode contains a selection of traditional race types. The new race type is Catchup, where one player is given a head start in a slow car while the rest of the field chases him or her down in more powerful supercars.

Impressive effort with a few noticeable problems holding it back. Won't astound everyone, but is worth most people's time and cash.

The long-running (-out-of-steam) Need for Speed racing game series from EA has enjoyed a serious overhaul and emerged as good, solid, head-wobbling fun in Shift 2: Unleashed.

For many racing game enthusiasts, each of the major brands are defined by their feel , rather than the swathes of licensed content that pepper press releases and official trailers.

When I sat down to write the review for Shift 2: Unleashed , I couldn't think of what I wanted to write. Nothing I put down really was able to convey what I wanted to say. So, I figured there was only one recourse: AUDIO REVIEW TIME!!!!!!

Shift 2 Unleashed builds on the true drivers experience by introducing the driver's battle, an even more authentic and primal feeling of power and speed which elevates the fundamental competitive race into a struggle for supremacy against other drivers and even the track itself.

First Impressions My reaction is Latest Videos Shift 2: Unleashed – Trailer, release date announced The lack of "Need for Speed" in the name of this game shows how far this it deviates from the original series.

on PlayStation 3. While it surpasses these two juggernauts in some areas, it can't match them in terms of realism and depth. Crucial features of a great driving simulator such as being able to call in for a pit stop when your tires are badly worn or dealing with rainy conditions have been left out.