WRC 9

WRC 9 is a true simulation, and also one of the best introductions to the genre. It's never too demanding or too realistic, and it's a joy to play, with its assisted driving and anti-lock braking systems. Add in how the ambient temperature affects your handling, and the different kinds of terrain – sandy, snowy, gravel, and asphalt – and it's got all it takes to turn you into a pro. You'll need to get some practice in, but it won't be too long before you're feeling the thrill of weaving through a series of tight corners and handbrake turning through hairpin bends. Visually, the game is breathtaking, with the dust clouds floating across your screen and an exhilarating sense of speed! The championship has been updated with the addition of three new rallies: Japan, New Zealand, and Kenya. You'll also find the 50 official teams and 15 legendary cars. When it comes to the cars, in addition to the WRC racers, the game also lets you experience the thrills of WRC Junior models, not to mention legendary classics like the Alpine A110, Lancia Delta, and the real Citroën Xsara from back in 2005. The different cars all handle very differently, and serve up a great racing experience from your controller. There are also plenty of game modes: you are free to forget all about career mode and focus purely on the different events, like multiplayer, full rallies, historical races, and manufacturer road tests. There's also a Season mode where you can choose exactly which rallies you want to race in. Club mode lets you take part in championships designed by other players, or even create your own. We liked the extensive content in Career mode. We don't mean just putting your pedal to the metal and tearing away from the start line, but rather the management side (and even the micromanagement), not to mention every aspect of the team you'll come to build, from hiring and firing staff to reading emails and supplier contracts. Our advice for seasoned drivers? Turn on Permadeath mode, which writes off your car after multiple crashes, forcing you to record a DNF (Did Not Finish) for the race. A benchmark title with infinite replayability!