Colin McRae Rally 04

Publisher: Codemasters

It may be a while since the dour Scot won anything of note, but Colin McRae's long-running game series continues apace, arguably proving more popular than the man himself. Following his recent acrimonious split with long-standing co-driver Nicky Grist, Colin has returned to his first love, Derek Ringer, and that is reflected here, the Caledonian's clipped intonation providing a refreshing change after years of Grist's nasal whine. And it's worth listening to what he says, as failure to follow the pace notes will rapidly see you wrapped round a tree like so much yellow ribbon.
Aficionados of the series will of course feel immediately at home, as this is effectively an amalgam of all that has gone before, with the addition of a number of tweaks in key areas. The previous incarnation was criticised for the fact that you had to play as McRae in the championship mode, and this has been heeded, with a wide array of vehicles now available. Both four wheel and two wheel drive championships are on the menu, and the history of rallying is also acknowledged via a selection of early '80s cars, many of which were withdrawn due to excessive casualties.
As ever, Zen-like powers of concentration are required with split seconds the difference between success and failure. The definitive rally game, whether you're a car bore or a non-driver, it is undeniably thrilling. Makes you feel good, makes you feel like a man.