Grid review 2

Five years after Race Driver: Grid, finally, Grid 2 drove all the way to the starting line to guide users on another series of fast-paced and damage-filled races. Whether it’s the officially licensed TOCA franchise or the challenging simulation experience offered by Dirt Rally, Codemasters has carved out a name for itself as a leading developer in the racing genre. 2008’s Grid is easily among the most accessible and fun pilots on the market. While not straying too far off the beaten path and feeling decidedly like a direct sequel, for better or for worse, Grid 2 still does enough to differentiate itself from Codemasters’ predecessor.

Pilots don’t need to be realistic to be fun. In fact, some of the funniest genre titles authentically control like Mario Kart. By allowing the handling to be responsive and match the pace of the gameplay, arcade pilots can be an absolute joy. Grid marks the line between arcade and simulation, which isn’t too surprising considering Codemasters is known for producing voices that adhere to both styles.

Game

Similar to its predecessor, Grid 2 is all about giving the pedal courage and drifting around corners at ridiculously high speeds. Due to the complete absence of tuning options, Grid 2 requires users to familiarize themselves with individual cars, which feel relatively different from model to model. Putting aside some minor surface customization options that mostly revolve around vinyl wraps and sponsors, the cars could also be on loan rather than actually bought. At the end of the day, the user gets used to the factory settings of one model or moves on to the next vehicle.

With around 60 vehicles, Grid 2’s car list won’t turn heads. Graphically, Grid 2 is definitely above the first entry in the series, although that much should be expected after a five-year hiatus. While handling may not specifically aim for realism, the cars themselves are detailed and manage effectively to capture the aesthetics of their real-life counterparts. Periodically, the graphics engine lighting strikes just as the sunset is receding to create a glow so gorgeous it’s almost a distraction.

Although there are specific competitions dedicated to the act, Grid 2’s maneuverability and tracks are primarily designed to facilitate drifting in any given opportunity. While the 2008 driver looks rather slippery by comparison, Grid 2’s cars are stiff and prone to grip the track. This alteration could be a byproduct of the sequel focusing almost exclusively on street racing, a creative choice detrimental to the longevity of the single player.