For the historical context this game was released in, I'd lean more towards a 3.5 star rating. But playing this game today is a test of patience. I've done it with both the original PS1 gamepad and the neGcon now, and while the analog input helps in the advanced part of the race course, the traction mechanics still feel like a crapshoot compared to anything even remotely more contemporary.
There's only one track in this game! Well, two variations of one track. And the ability to play them backwards with a different starting location after completing everything available. I'll give them credit in that it's generally quite the well designed course. The "advanced" segment is quite difficult to navigate for beginners, though the sporadic "on-off" nature of drifting makes it very difficult even for series veterans coming back to this one to have a sense of control over the cars.
Should you play this one? Only if you're still interested after reading all that. Should you buy it for a collection? Meh. Only if you're going for a full series, Playstation big box, full Playsation set, et cetera. It's more interesting to read about, watch, or research than it is to play unfortunately.
There's only one track in this game! Well, two variations of one track. And the ability to play them backwards with a different starting location after completing everything available. I'll give them credit in that it's generally quite the well designed course. The "advanced" segment is quite difficult to navigate for beginners, though the sporadic "on-off" nature of drifting makes it very difficult even for series veterans coming back to this one to have a sense of control over the cars.
Should you play this one? Only if you're still interested after reading all that. Should you buy it for a collection? Meh. Only if you're going for a full series, Playstation big box, full Playsation set, et cetera. It's more interesting to read about, watch, or research than it is to play unfortunately.