OTHER SIMS

HOME | NEWS | CREW | LINKS | STOCKCAR | GP2 & CART | OTHER SIMS | MULTIPLAYER | ERIK'S EXPOSE | FEEDBACK | NO PIRACY

By Nigel Clark, Redshoes Racing

I recently had the chance to get a preview of Codemaster's new 'TOCA Touring Car' game which has been mentioned here before. The Playstation version was on display on the Auto Trader stand at this weeks London Motorshow.

When I first arrived at the stand Patrick Watts was being filmed having a go around Donington. He was getting on the grass at regular intervals, having all sorts of problems through the chicane and eventually finishing 16th. Quite realistic so far!

Codemaster's web site has been previewing some very highly detailed sample screenshots but I can only assume these are from the PC version as the Playstation version is no where near as good. The look is similar to Sega Rally, perhaps slightly better.

Of the 2 circuits I saw (Donington and Brands Hatch) both were instantly recognizable. Around the track all the tyre barriers, gravel traps, advertising hoardings, grandstands and pit garages were exactly where they should be. At Donington you could see the Spitfire at the side of the track and Starkey's Bridge complete with Bluebird replica, although spark plug next to the bridge was noticeably absent. Nice touches at Brands included the hospitality marques between the Foulson Centre and the startline grandstand and the team transporters parked behind the pits.

The game itself has an arcade feel, viewed from behind and above your car (again similar to Sega Rally). You could crash into other cars or tyre barriers, or even flip the car over without effecting the car, just point it in the right direction and hit the throttle again.

An alternative 'drivers' view is available which is shows the view from inside the car with the bottom third of the screen showing the dashboard and a large steering wheel which is held by a pair of arms coming from the sides of the screen. When you turn the car the wheel and arms move as if steering. I felt this was a bit of a gimmick and added little to the game.

Overall I liked the game, which is a shame as it means I may have to buy a Playstation now. The game should be in the shops on 21st Nov. further details at www.touringcar.com.

Nigel Clark

BTCC / Touring Car http://www.redshoes.demon.co.uk/
Motorsports Photos http://hot.virtual-pc.com/redshoes/