Usually people tend to like sequels more as time goes on, I know people usually say 2 or 3 is the best (4 for me). And a lot of that has to due with more being added, simplicity making the older not as good. If anything, the simplicity in this one is what makes it 2nd best for me. After playing so much 5 and recently playing through 2-4 again, it's just nice going back to this. It's just races and showcases. There's speed traps and zones, but they're not really necessary. Only bonus boards are discounts for parts. It's just very simple and to the point. I miss that tbh.

Also I know I'm anti-corporate, but I like how this had real brands and stuff sponsoring races. Like it just made the world feel more alive. Like not having the sponsors nowadays just makes the series feel even more corporate somehow. Idk.