So it arrives. Few Saturn projects have aroused as much curiosity and doubt as Time Warner's handling of Virtua Racing. It seemed a strange licence for Sega to pass off, considering the affection the coin-op commands. But with their own heavy driving game schedule, there now seems more sense to it.

What Time Warner (apparently with some Sega development assistance) have done is expand greatly on the three-track original. There are three times as many tracks, and five different cars, as well as a dual-player and massive grand prix option that encompasses just about all these features in a save-as-you-go epic racing struggle. The replay option is also something special. The five minute cockpit thrill has changed almost beyond recognition.

Curious beast, Virtua Racing. On one hand it's probably the most sophisticated Saturn racer around - the 'preview' guided tours of the various tracks are accompanied by a sultry narration which seems a long way from Sega Rally's over-excited burbles. On the other hand, Virtua Racing is initially quite off-putting, simply because it looks so primitive.

Prepare yourself for a trip through Legoland - true to the arcade version this may be, but what are people who've never played the arcade version going to think? On the plus side, there's a lot of game here and your car itself handles like a dream. Nevertheless, I'm saving my pennies for Rally.

VR's main handicap is the stunning competition lining up against it - Daytona and Sega Rally are awesome developments. But Time Warner have been wise to create a true console game, not just a mere arcade conversion. There is incredible depth to Virtua Racing that more than makes up for its slightly tatty appearance.

Most of the new courses are just as playable as the originals - I would say Metropolis and Diablo's Canyon are better, and playing through the Grand Prix option offers excellent long-term playability. The two-player mode also works extremely well.

The handling and response is quite different to the original - it's actually easier to steer. This may annoy some purists, but in my opinion it makes it bloody fast and bloody good fun. The benefit of the simple visuals is excellent speed and update. Try out VR yourself. If you like the feel of a single race, there's one hell of a game there for you.

Graphics 80%
P. The sharp, stylish lines of Virtua Racing throughout.
N. Simplistic polygons next to the textures of newer games.

Animation 77%
P. Very fast action.
N. Some flicker and glitching. Clipping is generally poor.

Music 86%
P. Excellent CD remixes of the checkpoint music, with lots of new snippets.
N. No extended tracks to listen to.

Effects 79%
P. New effects, like snow and sand samples.
N. Horrible engine noises.

Playability 84%
P. Very easy to steer and play. Good reaction from the field of sixteen cars.
N. A different feel to all other VR games.

Lastability 89%
P. Brilliant on the longevity stakes, with more courses and options than any other Saturn racer.

Overall 86%
The spirit of the arcade classic strengthened with the depth demanded of a console game. A good mix.