DESCRIPTION

Unleash the drive within when you take on the high performance adrenaline-pumping speedster called the Porsche. Need for Speed: Porsche Unleashed by Electronic Arts pits you behind the wheels of over 80 of Porsche's classic and state-of-the-art models (from the 356 to the 2000 911 Turbo), where you'll maneuver through the twists and turns of European open roads.

Among the features are the following: a career mode from Porsche's 50-year history (Evolution Mode); a Factory Driver Mode that's mission-based; improved road handling with a new four-point physics model; 14 courses with five circuit courses, branching paths and nine European open roads; and an eight-player multi-player mode via modem (including peer-to-peer), LAN or other Internet connection (from the EA Racing network at www.earacing.com).

Other highlights include crashes, extra traffic, a new graphics engine, twists and turns, jumps, replays, four camera angles, adjustable visual options (detail, wide angle view, screen size, lighting effects, rendering, distance, headlights, lens flare and gamma correction) and audio options (music, sound, speech, world sounds, quality, 3D audio and engine volume). The game even lets you use your car's signals, horn, handbrakes, headlights and hazard lights!

The Factory Driver Mode consists of receiving assignments, reviewing course layouts and adjusting vehicle settings such as transmission, ABS, traction control, roof and damage. It also allows viewing of team profiles or bios of each racer in the game. Evolution Mode is a one-player career mode that lets you compete in three eras spanning the company's 50-year history, beginning in the Classic Era.

In the Garage Screen you'll get to check out the cars you own, perform maintenance, buy and sell cars and more. From there, the Porsche Center Screen gives you the option to: select the interior and exterior color of your car(s); test drive it; do a car comparison; access the showcase for details on the car; and ultimately to purchase your desired vehicle. Get a used car from the Used Cars Screen and even purchase and install parts for it. If it's damaged, take it to the Repair Screen and take a look at the efficiency percentage of each part before repairing it. Then you might want to enter the Paint Shop Screen where you can choose body type, interior color, two-digit decal numbers — even choose from a selection of trim design packages.

Ready to race? Choose either the Quick Race Mode or Quick Knockout Mode. The difference is that the Knockout Mode takes place on circuit tracks and when a driver finishes in last place, he's removed until a single driver remains. If you're not racing, check out the Porsche Chronicle, where you can view selected photographs, print media ads and video clips of some of Porsche's best models.

This PC game requires a compatible Direct3D video card, and makes use of the keyboard, mouse, joystick (including force feedback), wheels and Gamepads. Do you crave the Need for Speed? Well, put pedal to the medal in Need for Speed: Porsche Unleashed. ~ Cal Nguyen, All Game Guide