, because this is a game that doffs its cap firmly towards the more aggressive drivers. AI-controlled competitors in Slightly Mad Studios' sequel are programmed to show absolutely no mercy, as races turn into multi-million pound demolition derbies in some of the world's most glamorous locations.

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.

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.

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

That was the end of my first effort around the tracks of SHIFT 2 Unleashed. But here's the thing – the game finds out how good you are and then sets itself up to give you the best experience it can.

The team at Slightly Mad Studios has done a pretty good job of addressing some of the first game's problems - but not a perfect one. The massive pre-race load times have been reduced to about 20-30 seconds on the 360 version, and thankfully, unlike the PS3 version, there is no mandatory data...

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.

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!!!!!!

Excellent game. includes a 2 day trial to to try it online.

Hard but yet addicting. Couldnt have more fun.