DESCRIPTION

Sega's acclaimed racing simulation series makes its Xbox debut with the release of Sega GT 2002. As in its Dreamcast predecessor, this Gran Turismo-style racing game features licensed vehicles from such auto manufacturers as Nissan, Mitsubishi, Renault, Ford, Jaguar, and Daimler-Chrysler to drive around a variety of real-world tracks. Among the refinements offered by the Xbox are a selection of 125 cars, more courses, and enhanced visuals.

The main focus of play is the Sega GT 2002 Mode. As players enter various competitions, they'll be able to store cash winnings, trophies, and vehicles in their own personal garage. Players begin with $13,000 to purchase a car and can then enter an official race, event race, or buy new or used car parts. Official races are divided into three stages, spanning three to five races apiece, where players aim to finish within the top three cars. License tests are required during the first season, which grade driving prowess as well as overall time. Each test must be passed to advance to the next stage.

Event races do not require licenses and are played simply to win money and prizes. The 15 races in this category range from the Casio Sports Cup and Super Car Event to the Microsoft Speed Cup and Battle of the '70s. Certain races require players to own a specific car model before they are allowed to enter. Classic cars from the 1970s and early '80s are also available, to drive in a separate Chronicle mode. Video replays of each race can be saved during this mode, as well as in the Sega GT 2002, to show friends or to study before the next event.

Other modes of play include Time Attack, where players can record their best performances and then save them as a Ghost Car for subsequent challenges, and Quick Battle, where players select their car, course, difficulty, and number of laps before challenging a friend or the computer. Players can also earn the right to snap up to six photos while watching a race's replay video and save the shots in their garage. Each replay can also be edited using various filter effects for a more cinematic look. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide