For the number freaks:

Graphics 9.7
Sound 8.5
Control 9.0
Fun Factor 9.4
Frustration Factor 9.0
Depth 9.5
Replay Value 9.5


Here are the facts:

1. There are 16 cars and 4 trucks in total to choose from. Initially, you
only get 8 cars and no trucks...more are revealed as you win a season.

2. There are 3 levels of play and the easiest level (rookie) is plenty
tough. The game reminds me of Jet Moto as far as how diificult it is to
play.

3. The graphics and graphic effects are VERY well done.

4. There are 6 tracks, 3 variations of each track, and you can race any of
those 18 variations forward or backward. That amounts to 36 different
racing experiences...not too shabby.

5. The tracks are TOUGH. There are few smooth, flat, straight areas.
Expect to fight to stay on the track.

6. You can (and will) crash. Your car will reflect the damage (visually)
if you bottom out too much or flip your car.

7. There are shortcuts on the tracks...find them.

8. You race against either 3 AI cars, another human player in split screen
mode or 3 other humans in a 4 player mode (need the multi-tap and 3
friends for that one)

9. Did I mention this game is TOUGH?

10. There are a variety of ways to race. You can just do a time trial type
of race (solo race), unlimited laps (just keep racing), a race where three
AI cars head at you (suicide), head to head where you and a friend race at
each other, a season mode and a single race mode.

11. The game is $49.99 at Kay-Bee and (I've heard) $47.99 at Software Etc.
EB will match those prices, but they list it at $59.99 (which is still a
good price for this one).

12. Rally Cross supports the standard controller, MadCatz, neGcon, and
(amazingly) the unreleased Sony analog controller with force feedback. In
fact, there is a feedback option in one of the RC menus.

My opinion:

This game is a MUST BUY for anyone liking TOUGH racing/rally games. You
will *not* win the first few times you race...or the first dozen...but you
will get better and you will eventually win if you practice, learn the
courses and practice some more.

I haven't played a car/racing/rally game that I've enjoyed as much as
Rally Cross (with the possible exception of Rage Racer). This game has a
lot of life to it and will be in my PSX for many months to come.

- N.Brown